Buying a used vehicle should be a careful process that you make with complete confidence in your purchase. When cars are properly taken care of, they can last well beyond their estimated lifetime. There’s a chance you could score a great deal, but keep these tips in mind to ensure you don’t wind up with a lemon.
1. Take it on the Highway
Taking a car for a test drive is something most people know to do, but taking it out on the highway is a must. Vehicles with suspension problems or bad tires will more than like shake at higher speeds. You won’t notice those problems if you drive around the block at a low speed.
2. Check the Transmission Fluid
Check the transmission fluid, and rub your fingers down the stick to get a tiny bit of fluid on your fingers. Then, rub your fingers together. Transmission fluid that feels gritty is an indicator that there is corrosion because the transmission is so old. Milky transmission fluid indicates that there is coolant in the transmission, which means the radiator is in poor condition.
3. Test the Vehicle’s Functions
When test-driving a pre-owned vehicle, such as a used Ford Escape, ensuring everything works is essential. Turn on the heat, the air conditioning, turn signals, etc. Some people will pick up a used car and sell it for a higher price to make extra money. However, that means they don’t know much about the car.
4. Ask About the History
A car with one previous owner is likely to be better taken care of, and the vehicle’s history of accidents and repairs will be well-documented compared to an automobile with multiple previous owners. You’ll also want to know the last time the car was serviced and of course, its mileage. Finally, ask if it’s ever been smoked in. According to The Zebra, Americans own their longest-kept cars for an average of about 8 years. Knowing what the car has been through in its lifetime is vital to an assured purchase.
Ensuring you ask the right questions, such as when the car was last serviced, and test driving can help you wind up with an amazing automobile instead of one that leaves you stranded in a few days. For more information about purchasing a used Ford Escape, contact Hagen Ford today! Each used car in our lineup goes through a rigorous check to ensure they’re safe to drive. We’re happy to answer any questions you have along the way!
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