How Do You Inspect And Buy A Classic Car?
Inspecting old cars is always a bit tricky. But if you’re patient and careful, you can avoid the lemons and find a car that makes you happy for years. Step 1 Create a list of questions. Step 2 Call the owner and fire away. How long has he or she owned the car? What is the owner history? What repairs have been done recently? What is the car’s condition? Is there rust? What repairs are needed? If you are satisfied by the answers to these questions, arrange for a test drive. Step 3 Call your mechanic. Tell him or her you may want to bring in a car for a pre-purchase inspection. Make a tentative appointment. Step 4 Inspect the car carefully before you drive it. Check for rust and body damage. Check the fluids, the belts, and the hoses. Look for leaks. Step 5 Test-drive the car. Was the car started before you got there? Ask the owner to start the car and watch what comes out of the tailpipe – blue or black smoke isn’t good. During the drive, be aware of any sway in the front end. Does the t