Getting a good deal when buying a used car has a lot to do with knowing what to look for. In this post by AMSOIL: Marlo Enterprises in Newark, we’ll cover the three main aspects you should focus on. 

What’s the Car’s Condition?

When buying a used car, assessing its condition is essential to making a sound financial decision. There are several ways to determine whether a vehicle is in good condition; for example, you can take it to a certified mechanic’s garage for their opinion or ask a mechanic to accompany you when visiting the dealership. Looking at certified pre-owned cars is another way to ensure you get a car in good condition. For a vehicle to be certified pre-owned, it must pass an inspection following the manufacturer’s specifications. Buying a CPO car can be more expensive, but they usually come with an extended bumper-to-bumper warranty which can save you money in other warranties dealerships typically offer.

Whether you have a new or used car, a synthetic oil change is an excellent way to protect your vehicle’s performance. For advice on the best products for your engine, call Marlo Enterprises in Newark at (315) 331-4642 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to see their full range of products.

Check the Vehicle Identification Number

While a mechanic can give you great information about a car’s condition, it’s also helpful to know other things like the number of owners it has had, if it’s been in any accidents, and how well its previous owners cared for it. Here’s where running the VIN comes in handy when buying a used car. Keep reading to learn more.

First, Find the Car’s VIN

There are several places in a car where you can find the VIN. These are usually inside the car’s door, on the dashboard, on the engine, and under the spare tire.  Once you have the number, there are many sites where you can do so and get a complete vehicle report.

Who Owned It Previously?

Knowing how many owners a car had previously can help you determine how well they cared for it. It can also tell you how much wear it has endured. Experts say that the more owners a vehicle has had, the least likely it is it was well cared for. The owner can also tell you if it's being sold legally, especially if you’re buying it privately and not through a dealership. It’s important to know that if you buy a stolen vehicle, even if you don’t know, you could get into legal trouble. Looking up its VIN can save you from getting into legal trouble.

A constant upkeep routine is crucial to maintaining your vehicle in outstanding condition for longer. If you’re uncertain about what products would suit your engine the best, call Marlo Enterprises in Newark at (315) 331-4642 or visit AMOSIL’s online shop to discover their broad scope of oil formulas.

How Well Did They Care For It?

The VIN will also let you access maintenance records which are great for figuring out the maintenance the car has received throughout the years. If you can find a complete maintenance history, the previous owners have been diligent at maintaining service appointments which means the vehicle will be in good condition. Still, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic look at the records to cross-check them when assessing the vehicle.

Was the Car in Any Accidents?

Lastly, a VIN helps determine if the car has been in any accidents. Accident history is significant as the type and severity of the accident can help you decide whether it has received mechanical or structural damage, which could ultimately be a red flag. ‘ When it comes to accidents, the worst-case scenario is a car that has been declared a total loss by the insurance agency. A car like this will likely have important enough issues to become dangerous to drive and, in most cases, uninsurable.

What Mileage and Age Can Tell You About a Car’s Condition

Lastly, mileage and age can tell much about a car’s condition, precisely the relation between operation and service life. These two aspects can help you determine how well your vehicle was cared for in the past. Think of it this way; usually, a vehicle will accumulate 12,000 miles per year of use. If a car has a very low mileage compared to the years of use, it might mean someone has tampered with the mileage. If you notice this in a car you're interested in, have a mechanic check it before you strike a deal.

Set your car up for success by using only the best products for its maintenance. Call Marlo Enterprises in Newark at (315) 331-4642 and speak to one of its pros, or visit AMSOIL’s online store to see their complete product catalog and place your order anytime!