Advice for buying a performance car
Buying a used car is never an easy task, from searching cars for sale sections of websites and newspapers through to negotiating a price, there are many things to watch out for. Whether it's a new car, a used vehicle, a private car sale or if you're buying from a second hand car dealer a good rule is to never assume anything and if it's a very cheap used car, then be very careful. When buying a performance car there are even more things that need to be checked like modifications and the quality of any installed aftermarket car parts.
Firstly, do your research, you want to find the right car for your needs, so get online and see what are the best cars for sale in your price range. If you need ideas check out the 'buyer's guide' section of this website. Once you've been successful in finding a used car you like, get in touch with the owner and find out how long they have had the car, if it's only been a short time they might be passing on a lemon. Next check the ownership and other details at Checka for a full vehicle history report. If it's all legit arrange to view the car and inspect it closer.
Inspect the car during daylight hours and carefully look over any receipts for repairs or certification for modifications that the owner may have. Check the car body very closely looking for signs of rust regardless of the car's age. Pay particular attention to doorsills and under the vehicle's body. Look closely for visual signs of repairs like mismatched paint and misaligned body panels, you can also take a magnet to check for patches of filler. Be sure to look at the springs and struts to make sure they are either stock or have been modified correctly. Under the bonnet check the motor oil for clarity, inspect belts for signs of wear and also the engine mounts. Look extra closely at any engine mods like a pod air filter or extractors to be sure the installation is professional. Now, start the car, if it doesn't start easily that's a big warning sign of problems ahead, likewise if it blows out excessive smoke. Rev the engine and listen closely for any unusual rattles, knocking or harsh sounds.
Finally, take the car for a road test; this is a chance for you to not just check the vehicle's condition but also your own enjoyment driving it. However, be careful not to get emotionally attached at this stage and switch off to any suspicious sounds or behaviour. Be sure to take the vehicle to the motorway, on-ramps are a good place to check its acceleration in each gear and you can also get a feel for its ride comfort at the speed limit. Also, find a car park to safely conduct lower speed tests by turning the wheel full lock both ways to check the CV joints and pushing hard on the brakes to make sure it pulls up sharply.
If it all checks out and you have no further concerns then negotiate the price with the current owner and never be afraid to walk away and think it over. Chances are that another similar vehicle will come up for sale very shortly. Remember, as the buyer, you have the money so you also have the power.