By: Jon Stojan
When purchasing a secondhand or used vehicle, it’s always important to approach the process with caution. While you may never be fully certain whether you’ve purchased a reliable, sturdy car or a lemon until you’ve had time to test it, there are several potential warning signs to look out for. By keeping an eye out for these indicators, you can minimize the risk of buying a problematic vehicle.
These signs may help you identify a lemon before you spend your hard-earned money. Here are some warning signs to consider before buying the company car you’re thinking about:
Request the Vehicle’s History Report
It’s always a good idea to review the vehicle’s service and maintenance history. This can provide you with valuable insights into whether the car you are interested in might have underlying issues. Two well-known services in the U.S. that offer comprehensive vehicle reports for a nominal fee are Carfax and AutoCheck.
It’s helpful to inquire whether the seller has a history report available or if they are willing to provide one at no additional cost. Many reputable sellers are generally happy to comply with this request. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is required to obtain the report, which you can enter on the reporting service’s website to access the car’s complete details.
Consulting with Lemon law attorneys can be a prudent step to ensure that you’re protected if the vehicle turns out to be a lemon. It’s always better to be cautious when making such an important purchase.
Check Engine Light
A sensor often triggers the “Check Engine” light when it detects an irregular reading, which may indicate an issue. The problem could range from something as minor as a poorly shut gas cap to something more serious like a cracked engine block or a worn-out catalytic converter.
It’s worth noting that the seller may reset the check engine light in an attempt to prevent it from turning on during your test drive, especially if there are ongoing issues with the car. To avoid surprises, you can turn the ignition on and off a few times before and after your test drive to see if the light comes back on.
Knocks and Hisses
Sound is just as important as sight when inspecting a car. Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the engine, such as knocking or hissing sounds. These could indicate problems like a leaking fluid hitting the hot engine, a potentially failing head gasket, or an issue with the piston. While it’s not guaranteed that these sounds are indicative of serious issues, they can be a signal to tread carefully.
If you hear any unusual noises, it may be wise to proceed with caution before purchasing the car.
Pulling and Shaking
Once you’ve listened to the car, take it for a test drive, preferably on a freeway. Pay attention to how the car performs when it reaches freeway speeds. If you notice that the steering wheel shakes or the car pulls to one side, this may suggest a potential alignment problem or, in more severe cases, a more serious engine issue.
These types of issues may point to problems that could present a safety risk or become costly to repair in the long run. It’s important to thoroughly research these concerns before deciding to purchase a car that exhibits pulling or shaking when you accelerate.
Endnote
None of the problems mentioned above should be present in your new company car. If the car is still under warranty, factory defects and significant issues may be the manufacturer’s responsibility to repair. However, if these issues are not addressed appropriately, you might have the option to file a lemon claim and seek a replacement or a refund.
Published by Tom W.
