Even if you’re interested in buying a pre-owned vehicle, you want it to appear and drive as if it were new. That way, you’re able to save money without worrying about the car breaking down and requiring costly repairs. Before you commit to purchasing any pre-owned cars, look out for these five small details that demonstrate whether your potential used vehicle is a quality catch.

Keep an Eye Out for These 5 Small Details When Looking at Pre-Owned Cars

1. Panel Alignment

Walk around the perimeter of the car and check if the body panels line up with one another. If they don’t, it could be a sign that the vehicle was in an accident. It could also indicate that the body repairs done to fix the car after the accident were not the best quality.

2. Tire Brand

The tire brand used should be consistent to provide the suspension system with an even and easy drive. In addition, if one or two tires are more worn out than the others, it could signal that something is wrong with the alignment, suspension, or steering systems that warrant further maintenance.

3. Control Panel

Once in the car, turn all of the buttons on and off. Any problems with the electrical components could mean the battery is low. You’ll also want to turn on both the heating and cooling systems, paying attention to any strange smells that form. If an odor comes out of the vents, it could be due to a lack of air conditioning or heating maintenance, which means mold may have formed in the components of those systems.

4. Oil Color

Pop the hood and note the color of the oil. If the engine is healthy, it should appear dark brown or black. If the oil was recently changed, then it will be an amber shade. If dirt or flecks of metal appear in the oil, then it’s likely the engine has not been serviced as it should.

5. Engine Sound

Always test drive any potential pre-owned cars. When you start the engine, notice how long it takes to fully power up. Then, listen for any strange noises, such as clunking or growling. Either get out of the car while the engine is running or stick your head out of the window to confirm the engine is sounding like it should. 

Are you interested in looking at a variety of pre-owned cars? Located in High Point, NC, Crescent Ford has become one of the premier dealerships in the area due to their commitment to customer satisfaction. They have a range of vehicles, from eco-friendly cars and sedans to SUVs and trucks. They also have financing services and a top vehicle service center so you always feel safe while on the road. Give them a call at (336) 869-2181 with any questions, or visit their website to view their new and certified pre-owned cars.