Used vehicles are certainly an economical choice for budget-conscious Denver car owners.  But how can we know we’re getting a good used vehicle and not just inheriting another person’s problems?

Cars are sold when families grow and need a larger car or when they downsize and want a smaller one, or even when someone just wants a new car.  So the used vehicle may be just fine.  But some used car owners sell vehicles because they don’t want to deal with developing or existing problems.

When you’re considering buying a used vehicle in Denver, or anywhere else, ask for service records.  Check to see if the recommended schedules for critical preventative maintenance have been followed.  If so, you probably have a great used vehicle on your hands.  If there aren’t any service records, then assume the worst.

Check the vehicle for obvious signs of problems.  Kick the tires if you want, but make sure you check them for uneven tread wear.  This can indicate alignment problems, worn shocks or suspension issues.  Listen to the engine for unusual sounds and pay attention to unexpected odors.  Take the vehicle for a test drive and make a list of any concerns you might have.

If the used vehicle you’re looking at is a late model vehicle with under 35,000 miles on it, take it to Express Car Care for a full-service oil change.  This vital inspection will reveal many basic or developing problems.  Talk to your helpful Express Car Care technician about the concerns brought to light by your test drive, so you can get ahead of needed repairs or important maintenance.

Previously leased vehicles are often tempting to used vehicle buyers because they are generally newer models with low mileage and have been factory cleaned.  Be cautious, however, many residents that lease vehicles don’t bother with preventive maintenance because they know they’ll be turning the vehicle back in.   Again, ask for vital maintenance records, take the vehicle in for a full-service oil change and consult with your service specialist about any possible problems.

Older used vehicles are even more problematic for used car buyers.  Older vehicles simply come with more maintenance and repair issues than newer ones.  Take these vehicles in for a used vehicle inspection at Express Car Care.  Usually a seller will let you do this before you purchase the vehicle.  These inspections are very thorough and will help you know what you’re getting into  and  enable you to make an informed decision about your purchase.  That peace of mind will make the cost of the inspection more than worth your while.  It’s always good advise for car owners to purchase a Carfax report on any used vehicle.  This report will let you know if the vehicle has been in a major accident and will give you a title history.  You’d be surprised what has been learned from those reports.

Once you purchase a used vehicle, keep regular preventative maintenance schedules, because a little TLC can help your used vehicle last a long time.