What Can Be Wrong In A Used Car? - BUYER BEWARE

Here is a list of some major defects that may occur in used vehicles.

Check ALL ELECTRONICS Not JUst Sound system, This means a TEST DRIVE IS MANDATORY

Steering System

Too much free play at steering wheel (DOT specs.)
Free play in linkage more than 1/4 inch
Steering gear binds or jams
Front wheels aligned improperly (DOT specs.)
Power unit belts cracked or slipping
Power unit fluid level improper

Suspension System

Ball joint seals damaged
Structural parts bent or damaged
Stabilizer bar disconnected
Spring broken
Shock absorber mounting loose
Rubber bushings damaged or missing
Radius rod damaged or missing
Shock absorber leaking or functioning improperly

Tires

Tread depth less than 2/32 inch

Sizes mismatched

Visible damage

Wheels

Visible cracks, damage or repairs
Mounting bolts loose or missing

Exhaust System

Leakage
Catalytic Converter

Cooling System

Leakage including radiator
Improperly functioning water pump

Electrical System

Battery leakage
Improperly functioning alternator, generator, battery, or starter

Fuel System

Visible leakage

Inoperable Accessories

Gauges or warning devices
Air conditioner
Heater & Defroster

Brake System

Failure warning light broken
Pedal not firm under pressure (DOT spec.)
Not enough pedal reserve (DOT spec.)
Does not stop vehicle in straight line (DOT spec.)
Hoses damaged
Drum or rotor too thin (Mfgr. Specs)
Lining or pad thickness less than 1/32 inch
Power unit not operating or leaking
Structural or mechanical parts damaged

Air Bags

Frame & Body

Frame-cracks, corrective welds, or rusted through
Dog tracks—bent or twisted frame

Engine

Oil leakage, excluding normal seepage
Cracked block or head
Belts missing or inoperable
Knocks or misses related to camshaft lifters and push rods
Abnormal exhaust discharge

Transmission & Drive Shaft

Improper fluid level or leakage, excluding normal seepage

Cracked or damaged case which is visible

Abnormal noise or vibration caused by faulty transmission or drive shaft

Improper shifting or functioning in any gear

Manual clutch slips or chatters

Differential

Improper fluid level or leakeage, excluding normal seepage
Cracked of damaged housing which is visible
Abnormal noise or vibration caused by faulty differential