How to buy a used car without getting burned

Buying a used car is usually the smart money move, but only if you check the right things first. The two most common mistakes are buying on looks and skipping the history. A clean interior says nothing about the engine, and a low price often hides a problem.

Before you look at the car

Ask for the service history and any roadworthy or inspection report. Confirm the odometer reading matches the paperwork, and check that the seller is the registered owner. A vehicle with no service records isn't automatically bad, but you should factor the unknown into your offer.

When you inspect it

• Start it cold — a warm engine hides rough idle and starting faults.
• Check the oil and coolant, and look for leaks underneath.
• Test every gear, the brakes and the air conditioning, and listen for rattles on a short drive.
• Check the tyres have even wear — uneven wear can mean an alignment or suspension problem.

Negotiating

Get the car inspected by an independent mechanic before you commit; a couple of hundred dollars now can save thousands later. Then use any faults you find to negotiate, and always confirm the final price, inclusions and transfer process in writing.