What to check on a used car before buying it

Bodywork and chassis

Start outside and in daylight. Look for differences in paint shade, uneven gaps between panels (doors, bonnet, wings) or marked bolts: they can point to a repaired impact. A little surface rust is normal on a coastal car like those in Mallorca, but be wary of rust on structural areas or underneath.

• Differences in paint colour or texture.
• Uneven gaps between doors, bonnet and boot.
• Rust underneath, in the wheel arches or on the structure.
• Condition of headlights, glass and rubber seals.

Engine and mechanicals

With the engine cold, open the bonnet: check there are no oil or fluid leaks, check the level and the look of the oil, and inspect the belts and hoses. Start the car and watch the colour of the smoke: blue smoke (oil) or persistent white smoke (coolant) is a bad sign.

If mechanics are not your thing, the safest option is to buy a car that has already been through a workshop inspection. That way you know a professional has checked these points.

Tyres, brakes and suspension

Tyres tell you a lot: uneven wear can point to steering or suspension problems, and replacing all four is an expense to add to the price. Check the tread depth and that all four wheels show similar wear.

On the test drive, brake firmly somewhere safe: the car should not pull to one side and the pedal should not vibrate. Also listen for noises over speed bumps, a sign of tired suspension.

Interior, electronics and mileage

Inside, check that everything works: air conditioning, windows, lights, screen, sensors and cameras if fitted. Cross-check the wear on the steering wheel, gear lever and pedals against the mileage on the dash: if the car shows few kilometres but looks heavily worn, be suspicious.

Ask for the service history and the invoices. A car with up-to-date servicing and a single owner usually gives far less trouble than one with no paperwork.

The test drive is essential

Never buy a used car without driving it. Drive for a few minutes in town and, if you can, on the open road. Check that the gears engage smoothly, that the clutch does not slip, that there is no jerking or odd noise and that the steering runs straight. Any vibration or warning light deserves an explanation.

If all this feels like too much hassle or leaves you unsure, buying from a professional with their own workshop saves you the trouble: the car arrives inspected, with a warranty and with someone who answers for it. At Coches Ocasión Manacor we do that inspection for you on every vehicle we sell.

Frequently asked questions

What should you look at first on a used car?

The bodywork and the history. Differences in paint or uneven gaps give away accident damage, and the service book tells you how the car has been looked after. After that, the mechanical condition and a test drive.

How can you tell if a car's mileage has been tampered with?

Compare the mileage on the dash with the real wear on the steering wheel, pedals and seat, and check that the service history is consistent. Very low mileage with a heavily worn interior is a red flag.

Is it worth taking the car to a workshop before buying?

If you buy privately, yes: a prior workshop inspection costs little compared with a hidden fault. If you buy from a dealership with its own workshop, that inspection is already done and the car comes with a warranty.

What is the advantage of buying a car that is already inspected?

You save yourself both the risk and the work of checking everything: the car is handed over in good condition, with a written warranty and with someone responsible to turn to if anything comes up.