Inspecting a Used Car The scariest part of buying a used car is not being completely sure

Inspecting a Used Car

The scariest part of buying a used car is not being completely sure of what condition it's in. A car that's been in a major accident is always a bigger risk, but sellers often try to hide this information. Andrew Bleakley, evaluator-inspector, runs a mobile vehicle inspection service in Montreal. For about $ 80 he will perform. a full, unbiased inspection on a used vehicle'. In his 10 years as a professional inspector, Bleakl'ey has seen a lot. He warns. "Watch out for dealer demonstration vehicles which are used, not new. They may have been in a collision." He adds that it is not uncommon in Ontario and Quebec especially for unscrupulous sellers to roll back the odometer or to even disengage it. Bleakiey has special tools to check for this.

Bleakley always recommends hiring all independent technician to inspect the condition of a. used car before you buy it. The problem is finding someone qualified to do the inspection. Which he says generally doesn't mean just any mechanic. A thorough mechanical inspection includes checking the compression, all major systems, including the engine, electrical and charging systems, transmission and drive line, fluids, brakes, suspension, and steering. Essential, too, is all inspection of the car's body and finally a road test. There are, however, a few things everyone can do before buying a used car:

Do a visual check of the car. Look at the right rear door hinges. If they are very worn, or the door doesn't close well, the car may have been used as a taxi. Holes in the roof could mean the car was used for deliveries.

Check for oil leaks on the pavement. Note that leaks are not necessarily a significant problem— it depends on the cause.

Don't assume that new looking brake and accelerator pedals mean the car hash't been driven much. Resellers know people check these details and can buy new pads for around $ 6.

Copy down the vehicle' identification number (VIN). a 17-character combination of numbers and letters, from the vehicle's dashboard. In Ontado, ask the dealer or seller for the Used Vehicle Information Package. This gives details of previous owners, any outstanding liens on the car, and the fair market value of the vehicle.

collision n. 碰撞；碰撞事故 odometer n.里程表 compression n. 压缩；压缩量 pedal n.踏脚 lien n. 扣押权 unscrupulous adj.不择手段的 disengage v. 松开；使脱离 transmission n.传输 suspension n.悬架 hinge n.铰链 dashboard n.仪表板

According to the passage, in buying a second-hand vehicle it is most important to know ______.

A．how long it has been used

B．what color it is

C．whether it has been in a collision

D．whether it leaks oil