A few things I've done when buying a used car:
- check the oil pan underneath the car for leaks (you can find leaks on the driveway that it's parked on as well)
- check for leaks on the valve covers (oil leaks). This is generally easy to fix, but it's a pain in the ass
- check for leaks where the cylinder heads mate to the engine block. If you see bright green fluid (antifreeze) the head gasket is blown. Car is toast in that case
- ask him to have the car cold when you get there, and see how it starts. Whenever I sold used cars I'd run them for a bit before the buyer showed up, so when you turned the key it fired right up. Gave the impression it was easy to start
- while the car is running and warmed up, put your hand on the exhaust and feel for "misses" in the exhaust pressure. This typically indicates a miss on the timing, but it could be more serious. If the engine is old you may be losing compression in the cylinders but I've bought lots of used cars that had a small miss on the engine without problems. You can always take it in for a compression test to find out if you're unsure.
- check for smoke when the thing starts. Large amounts of white, sweet smelling smoke=blown head gasket, and coolant leaking into the cylinders. This is BAD. White, oil burning smoke is a problem with the valves leaking oil into the cylineders. While this isn't AS bad as a blown head gasket, it can still be a problem. Old cars have this problem, so you might have to put up with a bit of an oil burner for your price range
- When you drive it turn the wheel all the way one direction, and listen for grinding or creaking. Do it in the opposite direction as well. This will tell you if there is a problem with steering or ball joints
- compress all 4 shocks individually. The car should spring back to its original position. If not, shocks are blown
-check the tires for uneven tire wear. This is usually an alignment problem. They should all be the same brand of tire as well, but for your price range I'd be happy with 4 good ones
After you do all that, kick the tires. Guys LOVE IT when you do that test.
Keep in mind, a lot of what I just said is the minimum you will need to get the thing on the road. if it's over 10 years old you have to get a safety inspection by a licensed mechanic or you won't be able to register it. If in doubt, spend 50 bucks and take it to lemon busters and they'll check it for you.
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