Red flags to look out for when purchasing a pre-owned car

Buying a pre-owned car has become a highly-sought for option by car buyers who do not want to dig far too deep into their pockets but they have also approached it with questions on how to make the perfect purchase.

Here are some tips on what to look out for to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience when seeking a pre-owned car.

One of the initial red flags is encountering a deal that seems too good to be true. Car dealer Autochek Kenya proposes that if the price appears significantly lower than the market rate for a similar make and model, it is essential to investigate further. Get a friend or two, preferably a trusted mechanic to first inspect the car before buying.

Requesting a comprehensive vehicle history report is standard practice when buying a used car. Red flags may arise if the report is incomplete, altered, or shows a pattern of accidents or numerous logbook transfers. Ensure the car has an original logbook, to avoid inheriting a car with fraudulent cases.

Sellers who are hesitant or unwilling to let you conduct an independent inspection should raise concerns. An independent mechanic can identify hidden issues that may not be evident during a standard test drive. 

Verifying the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a critical step in ensuring the authenticity of the vehicle. Inconsistent or mismatched VIN information in different documents could indicate tampering or potential fraud. You can easily find this on the driver's side dashboard; stand outside the vehicle and look at the corner where the dashboard meets the windshield or in the driver's side door or door pocket, the VIN is usually printed on a sticker in that location.

High-pressure sales tactics and a sense of urgency from the seller are red flags. Legitimate sellers will allow you the time to do your inspection, consult your friends and mechanics, before you can make an informed decision.

Observe the exterior for visible signs of repair, such as mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps, or welding marks. These could indicate a history of significant damage or repairs. If you are lucky, it could be a distress sale, if you are unlucky, it could be an insurance salvage so look out for signs of recent repair work.

Autochek Kenya manager Henry Mbugua says that conducting a physical inspection of the car is crucial before making the final commitment.

He emphasizes the importance of personally seeing the vehicle to scrutinize minor details.

“Potential buyers to check for loose or misaligned rubber seals around the doors, as damaged or ill-fitting rubber could indicate underlying issues such as water leaks, wind noise, or structural problems. Such observations may reveal past repair work stemming from inadequate maintenance or previous accident," he said.

Rivets securing various components can be a sign of makeshift repairs. Properly assembled cars typically use bolts and screws, so the presence of rivets may indicate substandard repair work or previous accidents. On the flipside, most common cars would typically have rivets to deter petty thieves from yanking our side mirrors, car logo, windbreakers, and other vulnerable parts.

Inspect the ground beneath where the car has been parked for oil leak stains or other fluids. Leaks can be indicative of maintenance neglect or potentially serious mechanical issues. A close inspection of the engine once you open the hood can also show traces of any past or present leaks.