By @Pedrogomo
Buying a used car can be a great idea… or your worst nightmare. Here are 5 key steps to avoid getting ripped off:
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Check the engine (the heart of the car!)
Open the hood and check for leaks, patched wires, or burnt oil. If it smells strange or sounds like an old blender… red alert! -
Inspect the body and chassis
Look for poorly repaired dents, uneven paint, or rusted areas. Run a magnet (yes, a refrigerator magnet will work) over suspicious areas to detect filler. -
Check the documents.
Have the following documents ready: ✅ Original invoice ✅ Vehicle registration card ✅ Payment history and verification ✅ Proof of no theft report (use Repuve: https://www.repuve.gob.mx/) -
Test drive is a must.
Get in and drive it: listen for strange noises, feel how it brakes, if it vibrates, if it pulls to one side or if the steering wheel feels like jelly… that's not normal. -
Scan the car with an OBD2 scanner.
Connect a scanner (you can use a cheap one from the internet) to check for hidden electronic faults. Many cars appear to be fine, but are full of error codes.
📌 Top Tip: Bring a trusted mechanic or car expert if you're not 100% sure. A timely check-up can save you thousands. Did you like it? 🚀 Share it with someone who's about to buy a car and doesn't want to fall into the trap.