May 9, 2022
Buy a Used Car that’s Worth Every Penny!
Photo by Nordic Overdrive under Pexels License
Preloved car, secondhand vehicle, used car — call it whatever you want. Purchasing a used vehicle is always a better choice for a driver on a shoestring. It can also be the next best thing for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with the headache of making fixed monthly installments on a brand-new car. Whatever your motivations, you’d want to end up with a vehicle that’s worth every penny.
What to Inspect Before Making a Used Car Purchase
Whether you’re buying a used car from a dealership, an independent trader, privately, or an approved main dealer, there’s always the risk of buying a piece of junk. Knowing what to inspect in a used car is key to buying with confidence. To help you get a vehicle in the best condition possible at the lowest price, Veteran Car Donations shares a list of what you should inspect before making a used car purchase.
- Vehicle history
If possible, get as much information as you can from the vehicle’s current owner before you do some research. Next, run the vehicle identification number (VIN) via a paid service to find out if there are any recalls on the model, if the vehicle has any liens on it, or if it has been in an accident.
- Body
Watch out for paint chips or rusty spots as you take a walk around the vehicle. Fixing small rust patches is relatively easy. However, spots where the metal is rusted through are a huge deal-breaker.
- Leaks
A well-maintained vehicle shouldn’t spring a leak. Thankfully, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to spot a leak. If you notice signs of an oil leak on the tarmac or sludge under the engine, it’s best to walk away.
- Frame
You’d also want to keep an eye out for any issues with the frame. Check to see if the vehicle is sitting on level ground. Look under the car to see if anything is hanging from its undercarriage. Check for any signs of a recent accident such as new bolts or warping to the bumpers or inside the trunk and the hood.
- Tires
Be sure to check all four wheels and the spare wheel. While grazes from curbstones aren’t usually a problem, wheels that have large dents in the rims and wheels that are bent are red flags.
Moreover, the tread of all four tires should be worn evenly. If the tread is uneven or if the tire treads of all wheels don’t match, this indicates poor alignment. Unless you’re willing to run the risk of dealing with steering, suspension, or frame issues, it’s best to seek out another vehicle.
- Electronics
Check the interior electronics to see if they’re working by turning on the stereo, air conditioning, and heat.
- Mileage
Check to see if the set of wheels you’re eyeing has low or high mileage by dividing the number on its odometer by the age of the vehicle. Keep in mind that the average vehicle racks up around 20,000 km per year. Moreover, if you spot more signs of wear and tear on its mechanical components, you’re looking at a vehicle with high mileage.
Give Your Old Car a New and Worthy Purpose
If you’re buying a secondhand car to replace your battered old ride that’s has become prone to breakdowns, consider donating the latter to us at Veteran Car Donations. We’ll use it to give the suffering veterans in your area opportunities to lead healthier and more productive lives while giving you all the rewards you deserve for your gift.
We’ll sell your auto donation through an auction and hand over the proceeds to our veteran-focused charity partners. Like us, these IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are dedicated to helping veterans who are homeless, unable to find jobs, and suffering from serious disabilities and illnesses, including mental health issues.
Our charity partners use the funding we give them to provide deserving veterans with free medical treatments, financial aid, psychotherapy services, family support, housing assistance, educational scholarships, employment opportunities, and many other benefits.
You’ll get amply rewarded for your donation. Not only will you get our free pickup and towing service wherever you are in the country, but you’ll also qualify to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
However, the best reward you’ll get is the immense feeling of satisfaction, knowing that your gift will help improve the living conditions of the struggling veterans and their families in your community.
You can donate not just your old car but any other type of unwanted vehicle that you may have. Check out this list of the types of vehicles we commonly accept from our donors.
You can check out our FAQs page to get to know our quick and convenient donation process. If you have questions and concerns, feel free to call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 877-594-5822 or write to us here.
Reach Out to Our Hurting Heroes Today!
Photo by Pixabay under Pexels License
It doesn’t make sense to hold on to an unwanted vehicle when you can donate it to help our nation’s hurting heroes. We will use your donation to transform their lives. Call Veteran Car Donations at 877-594-5822 or fill out our secure online donation form now!
Last Updated: August 23rd, 2023