When buying classic cars, there is always a danger that you will get less than what you pay for. Vintage vehicles may appreciate in value, but always remember that these cars are ten to twenty years old – and that means there is a great possibility that there are some damage and scratches that diminish its value.
As a general reminder, do not buy a Car Inspection Services in Seattle WA. Take the time to inspect everything from the outside to the upholstery and even the tires. Here are a few quick inspection tips when buying classic cars.
1. If you don’t know anything about cars, consult an expert.
If you think you do not have enough knowledge about classic cars, it is best to contact a mechanic for an inspection before purchasing. If you inspect the car without the proper knowledge, it hardly looks like inspecting it at all. And even if you have a geeky side by car, it may still be best to contact a mechanic to help you. They can even give you a hint as to how much the vehicle is really worth.
2. Be sure to view all papers and documents.
Always look for all papers, from repair records to vehicle identification numbers. Be suspicious of sellers who couldn’t show all the right documents, especially if the deal is too sweet. You don’t want to risk buying a stolen car.
3. Inspect every inch exterior.
Check everywhere for rust. If you see one, make sure it is just surface rust that can be wiped off. Also, look for signs of repair and cross checking the papers. If you see a repair that is not in the documents, ask the seller for it. Make sure all repairs are done correctly.
Inspect mirrors, hinges and all the hard-to-spot spots, like the space between the doors. And of course, check your body for any scratches or bumps. Don’t forget to bring a magnet, as it can help detect iron fillings used to move repairs to dents.
4. Inspect every inch of the interior.
Check the padding. Look for cracks, stains and loose threads. Check the dashboard, door and headlight for damage or watermarks. If the classic car is a convertible, check out the convertible top, especially if it is made of textile. Make sure there are no tears. Look at all glove compartments. Dust is okay, but sticky stains are not hard to remove.
5. Check under the hood and all other mechanisms.
Look for leaks, loose wires and rust. Check for water in the oil and fuel filter. Inspect the belts for tears and possible stress. Know the history of the car in question and make sure the engine is original (unless the owner says it has changed). Hear the horns, operate the wipers and check the handbrakes.
6. Go for a test run.
Ask the owner to start the car. Black or blue smoke from the exhaust is not a good sign. Start the car yourself and listen to how the engine hums when idling as well as when turning. Take the car on a trip and observe the performance of the car. How well does it accelerate? Is the spring handling of high-speed voltages good? Are the brakes too light or too strong? Is the steering wheel responsive enough? And finally check out the tachometer, speedometer and odometer.
Proper inspection of a classic car can help you save a few dollars, especially if you know what to look for. Negotiate fairly. If the seller does not accept your terms, leave the car. Unless it is a very rare first edition, you can probably find another one that is much cheaper or easier to recover.
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