When shopping for a used car, what are the basics 101 to look for?

Answer 1

No leaking fluids, no engine smoke, no "funny" sounds, no rattling or shaking, everything works, nothing major should need repaired, title should be clear, test drive should be done on freeway as well as city streets.
Shop around before you buy, there are lots of used cars for sale.

Answer 2

Pick a car with a good reputation. Look at Consumer Reports to see which models did well,l and which to avoid.
Starting with vehicle history. Do you know who owned it?
If not a search with car-fax would be a good idea.
Avoid "Katrina cars"! (flood damage)
Look under the dash and seats with a flashlight and mirror to see if you see residue from flooding in hard to access places.
I would only buy from the person who the car was titled to. Otherwise it's likely to be a wholesale car, and that's bad news. Wholesale cars will get patched up for sale and can have hidden mechanical problems.
Besides the other good tips here, see if the seller is willing to let the car be inspected by your mechanic.
When you come to see the car was it warmed up? (not a good sign)
Ask if the owner has maintenance records, and look through them.

Answer 3

1. Mileage
2. Cleanliness
3. anything leaking out of the engine(look for wet or greesy spots around hoses and valves)
4. tire condition
5. rust free exhaust system
6. Rust in general
7. listen to engine while driving for knocking or other odd sounds.
8. check suspension( go about 30 mph and let go of the wheel and then apply the brake to stop to see if car moves suddenly to one side or another.

Answer 4

most dealerships let you borrow it for a max of 48 hours for free. in that time you can drive it and all that jazz, but you probably should use that time to take it to a good, CERTIFIED mechanic, not your husband, to get inspected for a faulty car. also make sure they are a member of the Better Buisness Beareu. those are the best things to do.

Answer 5

Obvious damage. CARFAX!