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You'll have the vin or
vehicle identification number. With this number you can pull up
a vehicle history through your state. Do a search for the model
and year of your car online. Were there any specific complaints
or call backs on this particular model?
The first place you
should test drive this car is to your trusty mechanics shop.
With a bit of notice he'll be glad to set a bit of time aside to
go over the car with you. He'll take a look at your car with a
keen and unprejudiced eye.
Take with you whatever
service records are available on the car, these will help your
mechanic understand the vehicles past. Your mechanic will check
the hoses and belts and condition of the oil. These are easy
fixes if they need changing or replacing. Your mechanic will
check the radiator fluid for coolant level and to make sure the
fluid is going to protect in severe cold conditions. He'll see
how much oil, if any is present on the engine. Perhaps the car
has been burning oil. He'll check the transmission fluid.
Another thing he'll check
is the lights, inside on the dash, and outside to make sure they
work. He'll check shocks, breaks and tires and alignment.
He'll take a look at the
body. Is there any rust underneath on the frame? Does all the
paint match, or has the car been repainted? Is everything in
alignment? Do the doors open and shut properly?
Let your mechanic take
the car out for a test drive. He may be able to pick up subtle
things, perhaps a shutter or hesitation, or hear a sound that
you may not. His is the best advice you're going to get in this
situation.
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