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Every car tells a story. Some cars are quite open about themselves while others may be hiding their true condition under the tinsel of a coat of wax and an air freshener. To get the most value out of a car, avoid buying a lemon. The signs are hidden under the hood, in the glove box and scattered about the automobile.
Cover the basics first. Ask the seller for maintenance records, if any, and all available paperwork on the car. The car's title lists the vehicle identification number, or VIN. The VIN on the title should match the car's VIN exactly. Look through the windshield down at the dash on the driver's side or in the driver's door jam for the VIN. If there's any discrepancy, walk away.
View the maintenance records. Based on the mileage, make sure that major routine maintenance has been performed on schedule. Such major items include timing belts, valve adjustments and fuel system maintenance. If records aren't available, ask the seller what maintenance he or she has done to the car. Any doubt raised while scrutinizing the car's maintenance history should be weighed.
Now examine the car itself. Look for signs of abuse and neglect. The tires should have even wear on the tread. If the front tires are warn more on the inner side or outer side, that suggests that the steering is out of alignment. If a jack is available, raise the wheels off the ground one at a time and check for side-play. If there is any play, the wheel bearings are likely warn out.
Pop the hood. Check the air filter. If it's excessively dirty, that's a sign of neglect. Look for oil leaks around the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Check the coolant in the radiator; if it's at all rusty in color, that's also a sign of neglect. Check the fuse box and make sure no fuses are missing or are the wrong value. Also, look for any spliced or altered wiring. Any sign that the electrical system has been tampered with is a tattle tale that amateurs have been working on the car.
When test-driving the car, note any unusual smells. Burning oil, gasoline and coolant smells indicate a leak or faulty equipment. Any strange noises should also be noted.
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