6 Things to Do After Buying a Used Car

Summary

In this video, the presenter shares six essential tasks to complete after buying a used car. These include checking all fluids, ensuring proper tire pressure, inspecting and replacing air filters, testing all lights, cleaning the car inside and out, and conducting a thorough walk-around to note any needed repairs. Each step is explained with practical tips and insights, helping viewers maintain their car in top condition, ensure safety, and save money in the long run. The video encourages viewers to take charge of their car’s maintenance to enjoy a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always check all the fluids in the car, including coolant, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and clutch master for manual cars.
• 😀 Change the engine oil and filter when you buy a used car to ensure you're starting fresh and know the exact oil in the car.
• 😀 Check tire pressure and adjust accordingly to avoid uneven wear, improve fuel efficiency, and maintain safety.
• 😀 Inspect the intake air filter and replace it if dirty to keep the engine running efficiently.
• 😀 Don't forget to check and replace the cabin air filter to avoid unpleasant odors and ensure clean air in the car.
• 😀 Make sure all the lights, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights, are functioning properly for safety reasons.
• 😀 Clean both the interior and exterior of the car to inspect for any damages and ensure a fresh smell inside.
• 😀 Thoroughly clean under the seats to avoid hidden debris or smells that might develop later.
• 😀 Do a walk-around of the car to check for any existing issues, such as sagging headliners or broken headlights, and make a list of repairs.
• 😀 Keep a checklist of repairs and maintenance tasks for future reference to gradually improve the car’s condition over time.

Q & A

Why is it important to check the fluids in a used car?

Checking the fluids ensures that all necessary liquids, like coolant, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and clutch master fluid (for manual cars), are at their correct levels. This is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and avoiding potential issues down the line.

Why should you always change the engine oil when buying a used car?

Changing the engine oil ensures you know exactly what oil is in your car and removes any doubts about what the previous owner used. It's a preventative measure to avoid using incorrect oil and helps ensure the car's longevity.

How can you determine the correct tire pressure for your car?

The correct tire pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver's door or in the car's owner’s manual. Checking this before adjusting the tire pressure ensures optimal tire performance and fuel efficiency.

What could happen if the tire pressure is too low or too high?

If the tire pressure is too low, it can lead to uneven tire wear and worse fuel efficiency. On the other hand, overinflated tires can also wear unevenly and potentially cause a blowout, creating unsafe driving conditions.

What’s the difference between the intake air filter and the cabin air filter?

The intake air filter ensures that clean air is going into the engine for combustion, while the cabin air filter cleans the air entering the vehicle’s interior through the air conditioning and heating system.

How often should you change the cabin air filter?

The cabin air filter should be replaced regularly to avoid bad smells and ensure clean air inside the car. Many people overlook this filter, which can result in unpleasant odors when using the AC or heater.

What is the importance of checking all the lights on your car?

Checking all lights is essential for safety. Non-working lights, such as brake lights or tail lights, could lead to accidents, especially at night when visibility is lower. Ensuring all lights work helps keep you safe and compliant with the law.

What is the most effective way to check if all your car’s lights are working?

You can either have a friend stand in front or behind the car while you operate the lights, or you can set up a camera to record the lights, then review the footage to see if any bulbs are out.

Why is it necessary to clean a used car thoroughly, both inside and out?

Cleaning the car allows you to inspect the exterior for scratches, dents, or hidden issues. It also ensures the interior smells fresh and free of debris, which might be overlooked by previous owners or dealerships.

What should you do after thoroughly cleaning your used car?

After cleaning, perform a walk-around of the car and make a list of any issues, such as dents or a sagging headliner. This allows you to address these problems at a later time and track what needs fixing.