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Buying a Used Car Can Be a Great Option, but Requires Attention to Several Details. Find Out How to Avoid Problems with Documentation, Maintenance, and Frauds When Choosing the Ideal Vehicle for You.
The used car market in Brazil continues to thrive, even in the face of price increases that have occurred in recent years. Despite this, used vehicles still lead sales, surpassing by more than five times the number of new cars sold.
This scenario has a clear explanation: the main appeal of used cars is the cost-benefit ratio. However, experts emphasize that it is crucial to adopt certain precautions before closing a deal, ensuring that the price paid is fair and that the buyer is not surprised by problems.
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To assist in this process, we have gathered a series of essential tips for safely acquiring a used car, from checking basic items to more complex analyses of documentation and the vehicle’s mechanical condition. See below for all the details.
Documentation and Vehicle History
One of the first steps when considering the purchase of a used car is to check its documentation. Problems in this area can be much more complicated to resolve than physical damage, such as dents in the bodywork or damaged upholstery.
The buyer should use the number of the National Vehicle Registration (Renavam) to access basic information about the vehicle, such as:
- License plate, make, and model;
- Year of manufacture and original color;
- Chassis number;
- History of fines, licensing, and payment of IPVA;
- Registered incidents and severe accidents;
- Judicial pending issues, such as liens;
- Status of theft or robbery.
Although some information is restricted, experts recommend issuing a caution report through specialized companies.
Checking the Mileage
With the used car in hand, it’s time to examine details such as the mileage, visible on the instrument panel. In Brazil, the average annual mileage is 15,000 km.
Thus, a car manufactured in 2020 should show something close to 60,000 km on the odometer. However, it is important to consider the vehicle’s history, as cars from rental companies or ride-sharing drivers may have much higher mileage.
On the other hand, a number significantly below what is expected without plausible justification is a cause for concern. Tenório Júnior points out that odometer tampering is a common practice.
To avoid problems, check other areas of the car that may indicate wear consistent with the mileage:
- Brakes: excessive wear on pads, discs, or drums;
- Lights: older models tend to be faded or less bright;
- Interior: gear shift lever, steering wheel, pedals, and driver’s mats should show signs consistent with usage.
Engine and Transmission Evaluation
The engine is the heart of the vehicle and requires special attention. Oil leaks, for example, are common problems that can be noticed visually. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the transmission to fix the leak, resulting in high maintenance costs.
Another important point is the type of oil used in the car. Models that use oil-bathed timing belts require extra care, as improper lubricant usage can lead to serious damage, such as premature wear and belt breakage.
Low-quality oil can also compromise the pistons, increasing fuel consumption and reducing engine efficiency.
Regarding the transmission, simple checks help identify possible issues. In manual cars, the clutch should not allow the vehicle to move only at the end of the pedal’s travel, and gear shifts should be smooth.
In automatic models, shifts between P, R, N, and D positions should occur without jolts. Problems in this system can cost more than R$ 10,000 to fix.
Suspension and Tires
The height of the car is a good indicator of its age. Older vehicles tend to have worn suspension springs, resulting in a lower body.
The shock absorbers are the components that suffer the most from usage, and it is unlikely that a car with five years of usage will have the same height as a new model.
The tires can also reveal important information. The manufacturing date is indicated on the DOT (Department of Transportation), made up of four digits indicating the week and year of production.
A 2017 car with tires manufactured in 2022, for example, likely underwent a recent replacement. Although this is not a cause for alarm, it can be another element to consider in the overall evaluation.
Electrical System and Airbag
On the instrument panel, certain lights deserve special attention: electronic fuel injection, ABS, stability control, and oil.
If any of these lights remain on after ignition, maintenance may be necessary. Tenório Júnior reports cases where car owners removed dashboard lights to hide serious problems, such as lack of oil pressure, which can lead to the need for engine overhaul.
Another vital component is the airbag. The absence of this item in vehicles that have already been in collisions can be fatal in a new accident. Malicious sellers may turn off warning lights on the dashboard and close the airbag compartment, giving the false impression that everything is in order.
Simple tests with automotive scanners help identify anomalies in the electrical system. For components such as windows, locks, and audio systems, just test them during inspection to identify problems.
Paint and Bodywork
The paint of the vehicle can reveal much about its history. Gaps between the doors, fenders, and hood should have uniform spacing. Any irregularity may indicate structural damage resulting from accidents.
When evaluating the paint, prefer environments with artificial lighting and avoid looking at the car under direct sunlight or when wet, as these conditions make it difficult to identify ripples.
Inside, the condition of the upholstery and finish should also be consistent with the car’s age. Ripples in the reflection of the paint or abnormal wear may be warning signs.
In this first step, we covered the main aspects related to documentation, mechanical condition, and visual items that help ensure a safe and conscious purchase.
Next, we will continue exploring other relevant points in the process of acquiring a used car.
Final Checklist and Additional Tips
In the final stage of the acquisition, it is important to perform a comprehensive checklist to ensure that no detail is overlooked. This includes both mechanical aspects and legal and aesthetic considerations. Start by reviewing all documentation obtained, making sure there are no pending issues, such as fines or overdue taxes. If possible, consult a dispatcher to verify the authenticity of the documents.
The mechanical inspection should include a test drive. During this test, pay attention to abnormal noises, suspension behavior, and engine performance.
Additionally, check if all electrical components, such as headlights, windshield wipers, and sensors, are functioning correctly.
Another important point is evaluating additional functions, such as the air conditioning system. Problems in this system can lead to high maintenance costs, so test it at different temperatures to check its effectiveness.
For buyers who want to ensure greater security, hiring a detailed technical inspection may be worthwhile. Specialized companies offer services that analyze the vehicle thoroughly, issuing a technical report with information about the history, mechanical condition, and potential risks.
Negotiation Tips
Negotiation is a crucial step in buying a used car. Be prepared with all the information collected about the vehicle to argue about the price.
Identified problems during the inspection can be used as a basis to request discounts. For example, if the vehicle requires tire replacements or shows signs of wear in the braking system, these costs should be considered in the final offer.
Do not rush to finalize the deal. Compare similar offers in the market to ensure you are making a good deal. If possible, bring a trusted mechanic for the final inspection before signing any contract.
Buying a used car can be advantageous, but it requires attention to details that go beyond appearance. With the tips presented, it is possible to make a safe purchase, avoiding unpleasant surprises.
Following this step-by-step guide is essential to ensure a smart investment and, above all, a positive experience with your new vehicle.
É primordial adquirir um veículo com baixa kilometragem (real), e visualizar o cano de descarga para verificar possível vestígio de óleo (motor queimando).
Excelente dicas parabéns por nos trazer esses detalhes tão importantes
Ótimo