A mechanic’s guide to buying a second-hand car

Give it a sense check

Whether you’re buying privately or through a dealer, the first thing on your agenda should be a thorough inspection – and that doesn’t mean just taking it for a spin around the block and calling your parents, like I did. mycar has developed an inspection guide that helps would-be buyers identify sights, sounds, and even smells that could cause you problems in the car’s essential functions down the track.

The step-by-step guide recommends always inspecting the car in the daylight – never when it’s dark or raining – if you can. If that’s not possible, take a torch so you can get a good look at what’s going on under the proverbial bonnet.

Be prepared to get your hands (a little) dirty, too – feel all the exterior panels to ensure they’re not damaged or painted-over, and keep an eye out for bubbling and rust around the edges. You should also pop the bonnet and remove the dipstick to check the viscosity of the oil.

When the car is running, pay attention to any damp or mouldy odours coming from the air conditioning. Keep an ear out for any unusual sounds when you apply the brakes and take note of any surging vibrations that occur while you’re driving.

Do a little digging

“It’s important to check the vehicle’s service history to see if the car has been well-maintained,” Pay says. “Ask to see the car’s logbook and check that it has been stamped by an authorised service provider at regular service intervals. It’s also good to check when the next service is due.”

Speaking of history, Pay adds it’s a good idea to check if your second-hand car’s tyres need replacing now or in the near future.

“Look for any damage or cracks in the rubber, and also check the tread level by feeling the tread wear indicators, which are the bars inside the grooves of the tyres. The tread level should be higher than the bars, which are the recommended safe level of 1.6mm. If they’re not, the tyres are due to be replaced.”

Don’t skip the big stuff

A thorough inspection wouldn’t be complete without giving the suspension and engine a once-over –even if you’re an amateur.

“See how many fingers fit between the front wheel and the body of the car on one side at 9 o’clock on the wheel, then do the same on the other side. Any major difference could indicate a damaged suspension or a bent body,” Pay says.

Likewise, any warning lights that activate during your test drive, like the oil light, could signify that there is a problem with the engine.

“If the vehicle is leaking any liquids, has smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe when turned on, or makes strange noises when you apply the brakes, it’s best to get the car checked by a mechanic before deciding to purchase.”

Seal the deal

While every car owner has different needs, you’ll also want to check for nonessential (but nice-to-have) attributes, like the size of the boot, a functioning radio, or a smoke-free interior. Provided your new vehicle ticks all the big essential-function boxes above, they could just be the cherry on top.

To guide your next preloved purchase, the free ‘mycar Sense Check’ inspection guide is available to access via the mycar website. Australians can also book their newly purchased second-hand car in for a car service when it is next due.