Should you have a mechanic check out a car before you buy it?

Experts agree that used cars must be inspected by a qualified specialist before the final negotiation for purchase. The ordinary car buyer, even if mechanically savvy, really can't do it justice. A thorough, professional inspection can tell you whether you're about to buy a peach or a lemon.

1. How do mechanics check your car before you buy it?
2. How much does it cost to check a car before buying?
3. When buying a car how do you pay?
4. What is the first thing you do in a vehicle check?
5. What makes a car crashworthy?
6. What is a decent mileage for a used car?
7. How many miles should a used car have?

How do mechanics check your car before you buy it?

Call the mechanic or repair shop you settle on, inform them that you would like them to do a pre-purchase inspection on a used car, and find if any of the dates and times you agreed with the seller works for them. The evaluator may ask you for the car's make, model and registration number to generate a quote.

How much does it cost to check a car before buying?

How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost? A pre-purchase inspection typically costs anywhere from $100 to $200, depending on where you bring the car to. You can have a PPI done at an independent auto shop or a dealership, just be sure to call ahead and make an appointment to set up the inspection.

When buying a car how do you pay?

Your payment: Payment can be a check from a bank or credit union for a preapproved loan. When the dealership is handling the financing, the down payment, it can be in the form of a cashier's check, a personal check or even a credit card payment.

What is the first thing you do in a vehicle check?

Look under the car for leaking fluids, check the brakes, power steering, and radiator. Look at the tire wear and inflation. Make sure turn signals, brake lights, tail lights, back up lights, front turn signals, and head lights all work. Adjust your mirrors.

What makes a car crashworthy?

Crashworthiness features, which are designed to minimize occupant injuries, prevent ejection from the vehicle, and reduce the risk of fire, include: seat belts; crumple zones; and, airbags (including side impact protection).

What is a decent mileage for a used car?

What Is Good Mileage for a Used Car? Mileage will vary between vehicles, but a decent rule of thumb to follow is that people drive an average of about 12,000 miles a year. Therefore, 120,000 miles would be a good mileage for a used car that's about 10 years old.

How many miles should a used car have?

As a general rule, you should assume that the average car owner puts 12,000 miles on a car each year. To determine whether a car has reasonable mileage, you can simply multiply 12,000 by its age. That means good mileage for a car that's 5 years old is 60,000.