When buying a used car, many buyers assume that the vehicle is in good condition, especially if it looks great on the outside. However, not all that glitters is gold. Used car dealers may attempt to hide certain issues with a vehicle to make the sale seem more appealing. That’s why a pre-purchase car inspection is crucial to protect yourself from costly surprises after the purchase.
In this article, we explore 10 common issues that dealers may try to conceal from buyers and how a thorough vehicle inspection can help uncover these hidden problems.
1. Accident History
Many used car dealers may attempt to hide a vehicle’s accident history, especially if the car has been involved in a major collision. These vehicles can have hidden structural damage that may not be immediately visible to the untrained eye. A vehicle that has been in an accident may experience compromised safety features or long-term mechanical issues.
Before committing to a purchase, always request a vehicle inspection that includes a thorough check for any signs of previous accidents. Additionally, ask the dealer for a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) to confirm if the car has been involved in any accidents. Note though that whilst PPSR.gov.au will show if a car has been previously written off, there will not be any records anywhere of prior accident repairs – this is where your Prepurchase Inspection comes into play
2. Odometer Rollback
Odometer rollback is one of the most concerning issues when buying a used car. Dealers may attempt to roll back the car’s mileage to make it seem like the vehicle has been driven less than it actually has. This deceptive practice is often done to increase the car’s resale value.
A pre-purchase car inspection can reveal signs of odometer rollback by comparing the wear and tear on the car with the reported mileage. For example, if the steering wheel, pedals, or seats show significant wear, but the odometer displays a low reading, there may be cause for concern. Realistically most dealers are legitimate and won’t get involved with this, and due to the prevalence of cheap ‘odometer correction’ devices available for purchase, most instances of this occur by private sellers. A recent example I encountered was a private seller with a 2008 Subaru with 154000km on it now , that had been sold via an online auction company 1 month prior with 319000km on it.
3. Flood Damage
In regions affected by heavy rain or natural disasters, dealers may attempt to sell vehicles that have been damaged in floods. These cars can suffer from long-term issues like rust, electrical malfunctions, and mould growth, which are not always visible right away.
A comprehensive vehicle inspection will check for signs of flood damage, such as water stains, a musty smell, or rust on electrical components. Ensure the mechanic inspects the undercarriage and interior for hidden signs of water damage.
4. Frame Damage
Frame damage is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed during a casual inspection. If a car has been in a severe collision, the frame can become bent or weakened, which compromises the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety. Since repairing frame damage is costly, many dealers will attempt to hide it.
During a pre-purchase inspection, a qualified mechanic will check the vehicle’s frame for signs of damage, such as welds, misalignments, or visible cracks. If any frame damage is found, it could be a dealbreaker due to safety concerns.
5. Mechanical Problems
Mechanical issues can range from engine trouble to suspension and transmission problems. A used car may appear fine on the outside but could have significant mechanical problems lurking under the bonnet. These issues may be difficult for buyers to detect without proper expertise
A pre-purchase car inspection is essential for uncovering hidden mechanical problems. An experienced mechanic can check the engine, transmission, and suspension for signs of wear and tear, leaks, or failing parts. This inspection can help you avoid costly repairs after the sale.
6. Unresolved Recalls
Used car dealers may sometimes overlook or conceal unresolved recalls. A recall can be for anything from a minor fix to a critical safety issue, and dealers may not want to deal with the cost or inconvenience of addressing the recall before selling the car
Before buying, you can check the car’s recall history using the manufacturer’s website. Additionally, a pre-purchase inspection may highlight safety issues that were part of a recall but were not properly addressed.
7. Title Issues (Salvage/Rebuilt)
A salvage title is issued when a car has been severely damaged and declared a total loss by an insurance company. Some dealers may try to sell cars with a salvage or rebuilt title without fully disclosing this information. These vehicles can be difficult to insure and may require expensive repairs.
Always ask for the vehicle’s title and verify its status before purchasing. If a car has a salvage title, ensure you are fully aware of the risks involved. A vehicle inspection may also reveal that the car has been significantly repaired.
8. Excessive Wear and Tear
Excessive wear and tear is a red flag that many dealers attempt to downplay or hide. If a car has been poorly maintained, it may show signs of heavy use, such as worn-out brakes, tyres, or engine components. These issues can be costly to repair.
A detailed pre-purchase car inspection can uncover excessive wear on key components like the tyres, brakes, and engine. A mechanic will assess the car’s overall condition and let you know if any parts need immediate attention or replacement.
9. Non-Functional Features
Sometimes, a dealer might not disclose that a car has non-functional features, such as broken air conditioning, faulty power windows, or malfunctioning electronics. These issues may seem minor but can be expensive to fix.
Test all of the car’s features during a test drive, including the air conditioning, power windows, lights, and entertainment system. A vehicle inspection will also ensure that all electronics and features are working properly.
10. Poor Maintenance Records
Some dealers may try to sell cars with poor maintenance records or no records at all. Lack of documentation makes it difficult to know how well the car has been maintained, increasing the risk of hidden issues or future breakdowns. This is often the case with odometer tampered cars.
Request detailed maintenance records for the vehicle. If the dealer cannot provide them, it’s a red flag. A pre-purchase inspection will help determine whether the car has been well-maintained, even if the records are incomplete.
Conclusion
When buying a used car, it’s essential to be aware of the potential issues that dealers may attempt to hide. A pre-purchase car inspection is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from making a costly mistake. By hiring a qualified mechanic to conduct a thorough vehicle inspection, you can uncover hidden problems such as accident history, odometer rollback, flood damage, frame issues, and more. Always take the time to inspect the car before making a purchase, and request all necessary documentation, including maintenance records and a vehicle history report.
By being vigilant and thorough, you can ensure that you’re making a sound investment and avoid the headaches of unexpected repairs down the line.
Ensure your next used car purchase is safe with a thorough pre-purchase car inspection. Visit germanprecision.com.au today to schedule your vehicle inspection!
