Used car red flags are a topic that comes up often when individuals start shopping for used vehicles. Especially if you’re buying privately, it’s important to know what to look for and do your due diligence. Many private sellers do not take the time to do a proper inspection. They may not know entirely what they’re selling, and you may not know what you’re buying.
When you purchase your used vehicle with Race Auto Group, you can be sure that a thorough vehicle and safety inspection was carried out. You’ll receive paperwork with the results of the inspection and have peace of mind in knowing your vehicle is well-maintained and road-ready.
Used Car Red Flags
Here are the used car red flags to watch out for. You can avoid these altogether by buying quality used vehicles from Race Auto Group.
Excessive Engine Noise
Any loud knocking, ticking, or grinding noise from the engine is a clear sign of damage. These sounds may only come up during startup, idling, or acceleration but are used car red flags worth paying attention to. If there are underlying mechanical problems, they may be costly to fix.
Oil and Fluid Leaks
Look for oil spots under the car. Inspect the engine bay for leaks. If there are leaks, it could mean failing gaskets, seals, and critical components that are no longer doing their job, and your car will require an auto repair and oil change. If the fluids are dirty or dry, it’s a sign that maintenance was not followed up on, which could be a cause for concern.
Inconsistent Paintwork
Where you see paint touch-ups, it’s likely an indication that there were body repairs from an accident. Any uneven paint texture, colour mismatches, or overspray on seals and trim are all used car red flags. This may mean there is structural damage hidden that could impact the car’s safety.
Misaligned Panels and Materials
Misaligned gaps, doors that don’t close properly, or hoods and trunks that don’t align are also signs that there was a previous accident and the repair was poorly performed. Noticing these used car red flags early can help avoid investing in a vehicle that is in poor condition.
Rust and Corrosion
Any visible surface rust is a warning sign that there could be severe underlying corrosion. For a closer look at how much rust a used car carries, look at the wheel well, undercarriage, and around the door frames. Rust will eat away at your vehicle, so you can expect costly repairs down the line.
Transmission Slippage
See how smoothly the transmission shifts when you test-drive the car. Any slipping, jerking, or delays while the car shifts gears are major used car red flags. The transmission will need to either be replaced or repaired, so this is not the type of vehicle you want to buy.
Interior Used Car Red Flags
Worn or Damaged Interior Materials
Inside the vehicle, you may notice used car red flags that completely turn you off from wanting to buy.
- Excessive wear on the seats and steering wheel.
- Unusual smells, such as mold or smoke, can be difficult to remove, even with thorough detailing.
- If the interior trim or upholstery is damaged, it will be difficult and costly to repair.
Malfunctioning Electronics
Test the electronics inside any pre-owned car you want to buy. See if the windows, locks, lights, and fob all work. If there are electrical issues you have not been told about, this could indicate a failing system that may dramatically impact the enjoyment of your car.
Avoid Used Car Red Flags at Race Auto Group
Buying your next vehicle from Race Auto Group is the best way to avoid these used car red flags. We pride ourselves on offering a range of pre-owned vehicles to fit anyone’s needs and budget, all of which have passed thorough inspections. Don’t fall into the trap of spending on a used car that isn’t worth it. Buy from Race Auto Group today.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s easy to fall into a trap when spending money on a vehicle that you don’t have the full picture on. Here are some common questions we get asked about used car red flags that may help.
How do I know I can trust someone selling a used car?
Unfortunately, you don’t. Whether you are buying from a private seller or a used car company, you have to make the judgment call on whether to do business or not. Many private sellers will not give the full story about a car in the hopes of selling it faster. A company, however, often has higher standards.
Should I look at a used car’s vehicle history?
A reputable seller can provide a full history of the vehicle, including any and all accidents it’s been in. If a dealership or private seller will not provide the vehicle history, this is a sign they might be hiding something. This is another used car red flag.
Should I inspect a used car myself before buying?
Always get the full story on a used vehicle before you buy it. If a seller is unwilling to let you inspect their vehicle, take this as a sign and move on. Always conduct an inspection or bring the car to an auto repair centre you trust.