If you’re in the market for a used car, it’s important to be aware of the most common faults that occur with these vehicles. By knowing what to look out for, you can avoid buying a lemon and save yourself a lot of money and hassle down the road.
If you’re buying a used car, it’s critical to select one that won’t let you down, especially if the original manufacturer warranty has expired. By being aware of the most common faults with used cars, you can make an informed decision about which car to buy – and avoid costly repairs down the road.
The following are the eight most common faults with used cars:
Common Fault #01: worn-out brakes and brake pads
Brake pads are one of the most important safety features on your car, so it’s important to make sure they’re in good condition before you buy a used car. Brakes will wear down with time, so you must maintain them and ensure any issues are addressed as soon as possible before they fail. A malfunction in the brakes may also cause brake pads and rotors to wear out faster than normal. If the brake pads are worn out, they’ll need to be replaced – and this can be a costly repair.
How to Avoid It: To avoid this problem, always have a qualified mechanic inspect the brakes and brake pads before buying a used car. Make sure the car you’re considering has been serviced regularly and that all brake repairs have been carried out on time.
Common Fault #02: Worn-out tyres
Tyres are another important safety feature on your car, and they too will wear down with time and use. Normal wear and tear are to be expected, but if the tyres are worn down rapidly this suggests an issue with the car’s suspension or alignment. Worn-out tires can also lead to blowouts, which can be extremely dangerous.
How to Avoid It: If you notice vibrations in the steering wheel or your tires appear to be wearing unevenly, have someone professional inspect the vehicle. Keep in mind that tyres should be replaced every six years, regardless of wear and tear.
Common Fault #03: faulty engine
A faulty engine is a serious problem and can be very costly to repair. If the engine is smoking, making strange noises, or leaking oil, this is a sign that there may be an issue. A car with a faulty engine will likely have a shorter lifespan than one with a healthy engine, so it’s important to be aware of this before making a purchase.
How to Avoid It: Always have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine before buying a used car. If you notice any strange noises or smells, or if the engine appears to be leaking oil, don’t take any chances – walk away from the car.
Common Fault #04: faulty transmission
A faulty transmission can also be very costly to repair. Symptoms of a problem with the transmission include gears that slip, shuddering when accelerating and delayed engagement. If you notice any of these issues, have the car inspected by a professional before making a purchase.
How to Avoid It: As with the engine, it’s important to have the transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying a used car. If there are any signs of problems, it’s best to walk away from the sale.
Common Fault #05: electrical issues
Electrical issues can be difficult to diagnose and repair, so it’s best to avoid cars with known electrical problems. Common symptoms of electrical issues include flickering lights, dead batteries, and blown fuses. If you notice any of these problems, have the car inspected by a professional before making a purchase.
How to Avoid It: Before you purchase a used car, have a qualified mechanic inspect the electrical system. If you see any indication of electrical problems, walk away from the car.
Common Fault #06: water leak
A water leak can cause a lot of damage to a car and is often expensive to repair. If you see evidence of a water leak – such as rust or dampness in the interior – it’s best to avoid purchasing that car.
How to Avoid It: Inspect the car for any signs of rust or dampness. If you see evidence of a water leak, it’s better to cancel the sale and find another car.
Common Fault #07: faulty airbags
Airbags are an important safety feature in any car, so it’s best to avoid cars with known airbag problems. Common symptoms of faulty airbags include the airbags not deploying in a crash, the airbags deploying when they shouldn’t, and the airbag light staying on. If you’re considering a car with known airbag problems, be sure to factor in the cost of repairs before making your decision.
How to Avoid It: Always have a qualified mechanic inspect any car you’re considering purchasing, especially if you know that the airbags have been deployed in a previous accident. If the car has an airbag light that stays on, this is an indication of a serious problem and you should walk away from the sale.
Common Fault #08: suspension problems
Suspension problems can be expensive to repair and can also make the car unsafe to drive. If you notice any vibrations when driving, or if the car seems to ‘sway’ from side to side, there is likely a problem with the suspension.
How to Avoid It
Have a qualified mechanic inspect the suspension before purchasing a used car. If you notice any problems, it’s best to walk away from the sale.
These are just a few of the most common faults that can be found in used cars. By taking the time to have a qualified mechanic inspect the car before making a purchase, you can avoid many of these problems.
You can also run a vehicle check using Reg Car Check before purchasing a new used car to check for things such as write off or invalid MOT.
