Buying used without research can create risky car purchase

Editor's note: This is the second story in a three-part series dealing with purchasing a car. This story focuses on buying used cars.

By JOEL MYERS
Collegian Staff Writer

For college students who want to purchase a car, a used vehicle is probably the most realistic financial option available. However, purchasing one can be risky and require a lot of research.

Generally, when looking to buy a used car, it is best to research as many resources as possible, said Barry Creany, senior deputy attorney general at the Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Whether looking in the classified advertisements or at a used car lot, Creany said a host of consumer tips and materials exist to make buying a used car easier.

Checking a vehicle's retail value is one of the first steps in researching a used vehicle.

The Kelley Blue Book World Wide Web site (www.kbb.com) can be used to determine approximate retail and trade-in values for vehicles up to 21 years old.

Also, the vehicle's title should be carefully reviewed to see if the car might have serious problems, such as previous damage.

The Kelley Blue Book site offers a free service to check a vehicle's title by using its vehicle identification number.

The VIN can be found in most vehicles stamped on a small plate of metal near the windshield on the driver's side dashboard.

Before consumers purchase any used vehicle, Creany said they should have a mechanic inspect the car.

Although it depends on what the customer specifically asks the mechanic to look for, mechanics will be able to assess the general quality of the vehicle, said John Snare, supervisor at Walk's Service Center, 827 S. Atherton St.

Mechanics usually inspect the brakes, frame, engine, fluids and lights.

They also take it for a road test, he said, which helps them determine if there are any serious problems with the vehicle.

Engine compression and cooling system pressure tests also may be administered for additional engine scrutiny, said Jim Lohr, owner of Lohr's Garage, 1869 N. Atherton St.

Before taking the vehicle to a mechanic, Snare said there are some basic warning signs to look for.

If there is thick, black or white exhaust, it may be a sign of serious engine problems.

However, exhaust when a car first starts is normal, especially on a cold day.

Snare also said the vehicle should not pull to one side while braking or make noises during turning, and the brakes should not grind. These may be indicators the car had been in an accident or there is frame damage. The common problem of squeaky brakes should not cause concern, Snare added.

"With the advent of the Internet, you see a lot of people come in pretty well-informed," said Matt Kennedy, used car manager at Shields Motor Co., 3280 W. College Ave.

Used cars are inspected under a 32-point checklist, he said, which includes checking for engine problems, fluid leaks and good brakes and tires. Vehicles also are checked for exterior and interior defects.

According to the Microsoft Carpoint Web site (www.carpoint.msn.com), buyers should examine the vehicle after it has been parked overnight to see how it will start in the morning. Also, they should try to inspect vehicles during daylight hours when everything can be seen properly. A used car pre-purchase checklist is available on the site.

• Jan. 2: Shopping for wheels