1. Has the oil been changed regularly?
Changing the oil is one way to keep a car running smoothly and with the best fuel efficiency possible. Oil not only helps the engine stay smooth-running, but it also helps to ensure that the engine does not overheat. One way to make sure that the oil has been changed regularly (and lately) on a used car is to inspect the oil compartment within the engine.
To check the oil compartment, simply remove the oil cap. Look around the rim of the cap and the compartment to see if there is any gunky black build-up. This build is an indicator that the oil needs to be changed, and probably hasn't been changed for awhile. Remember: when the oil has not been changed, the chances increase dramatically that you could run into engine problems.
2. Have the tires been equally worn down?
Walk around the car and inspect each tire on its own. Do you notice any particular patterns in the way that the tires have been worn down? Is one side of the tire smoother than another? Does one side of the car have smoother tires than another? If so, then chances are good that the car may have an issue with the axel. If the tires are out of alignment, they will wear down unevenly. When the tires are out of alignment for a sustained amount of time, chances are good that the axel will become strained or even cracked.
3. Rev the engine.
You know what an engine is supposed to sound like, right? It's supposed to sound like a purr, or like hardly anything at all. If you put the pedal to the metal and rev the engine, do you hear any clanking in the engine itself? Are there unusual noises that you cannot identify? If so, then the engine may be having engine trouble that could haunt you down the road. Some engine problems are easy to fix. Others last and last.
Before purchasing your next quality used car in Vancouver, be sure to inspect it thoroughly so that you feel completely comfortable with the purchase. Most reputable dealers will only sell used vehicles that have been fully certified to pass all safety standards. Remember: buying a quality used car in the beginning will help to stave off any issues down the road. Good luck!