What car engine items should I check when buying a used car?
First of all check to see if there
are any
known engine faults
or recalls reported with the car. If there are any known faults
then check the paperwork against the
vehicle identification number to see if the problem has been fixed, or find
out how much it would cost to get repaired.
Start the engine from cold and listen for any metallic noises. Be sure the oil
warning light switches off once the engine is running. Be suspicious if a car
has been warmed up for inspection. A car that runs rough when cold may have a
serious/costly engine fault e.g. sticking valves.
Check around the engine for any fluid or oil leaks.
Check to see that the engine oil is clean and not too black or thick. If the
underside of the oil cap has a creamy substance on it this could indicate head
gasket problems.
Does the condition of the engine match the age of the car and that of the
service history? If the engine bay looks pristine but has an incomplete service
history then the engine may have just been steam cleaned. This may have been
done to hide a nasty oil leak.
Check the radiator coolant for signs of oil or rust.
Is the engine covered by an
inclusion or an exclusion car warranty?
Check that the engine has not be subjected to
flood water damage.
