Things to remember when buying a Used Automobile
Remember to ask if they offer:.
1. Warranty
A certified pre-owned dealer should offer six to twelve months of limited warranty
on your used car if it is less than five years old. Other used car dealers might
offer three to six months of limited warranties on their used cars.
2. Mileage check
This is rare, but a good dealer will offer you a documented assurance about
the mileage on the motor vehicle. Most grade 1 and 2 vehicle from Japan have
fairly thorough assurances that the mileage has not been adjusted.
3. 'No Conditions Exchange'
See if you can get the seller to agree to a 30-day and/or 1000mile no conditions
return or exchange in writing. If the vehicle is in the condition that you
both agree this could be your protection or warning if something is seriously
wrong with this vehicle.
4. 12-months Customer Assistance?
Some dealers will offer a limited twelve month assistance plan if your vehicle
'breaks' on the road.
5. Service History Check
History checks are more difficult in Jamaica since we have no institution that
tracks service documents, accidents, salvages etc. But there are still some
things you can do. Automobiles imported from Japan are graded very rigorously
there. So you can examine the importation documents to ascertain the service
history of imports and when he car was imported.
6. Physical Examination
Asking an independent mechanic to 'have a look' at your proposed purchase
to give you an expert opinion is always a good idea. Below are a few items
to remember. This is not a complete list:
- Walk around and inspect the body for dents & scratches
- Examine carefully for small rust areas where paint has lifted or removed
- Inspect the interior for scratches & tears
- Check the trunk for tool kit/jack/spare tire/cleanliness
- A clean tidy engine and engine bay might indicate a well kept vehicle
- Listen for any unusual sounds with the hood open and the engine running
- Drive the car paying attention to the ride, noise and feel of the car
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