Engine
There should not be any extreme noises, knocking and whistling during
acceleration or idling. If you see steam in the exhaust after the engine has
achieved normal operating temperature, it indicates some cooling system defect -
blown-off head gasket, for instance. (Note, if the engine is cold or has just
started, steam or water pouring out from the exhaust pipe is okay). In several
of the latest cars, there is a sign on the instrument panel indicating any
failure inside the engine.
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Smoke |
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Start the engine.
Let it idle for 3-5 mins. Then press halfway down the
accelerator pedal for 2-3 secs. and tell your friend to check
the smoke from the exhaust pipe. |
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Strong black smoke
means the engine is flooded with petrol because of a fuel
system defect or that the spark plugs may not be working.
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Blue or white-blue
smoke means burning of oil because of internal engine defects
(like broken pistons or piston rings). |
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White smoke
(steam) is a result of the coolant penetrating into the
cylinders. It could also mean some gasket defect. |
Noise
Once the car has warmed up, listen for engine noise as you drive; unusual sounds
may be the signs of major trouble. Drive over rough road surfaces, watch for
unusual vibrations, noises or odours. Make several stops and starts, at varying,
but safe, rates of speed on a clear, level road surface.
Suspension
Drive carefully, close all the windows, switch off the radio, and listen for any
noise. If the car is a front-wheel-drive model, pay more attention to checking
front suspension. If there is any knocking noise, the suspension has some
faults.
Frame
You become a bystander and allow the seller to drive the car on a flat, muddy
terrain. The tyre marks on the front wheels should match those on the rear ones.
If they don’t, then the chassis or the frame has been damaged due to an
accident.
On-road performance
The car should accelerate smoothly and should brake without grabbing, vibrating,
or pulling to one side. When you step firmly on the brake pedal, it should feel
firm, not spongy. Try turning at various speeds. Too much sway or stiffness can
mean bad shocks and/or front--rear problems. Turn the wheel all the way from one
side to the other; power steering should feel smooth, with little or no
squealing. In case of worn-out wheel bearings, you can hear a humming sound
which betrays this defect. Also, the noise of the distorted steering bushings
will cause excessive steering column vibration.
Instrument panel
Sit inside the vehicle for a minute while it warms up. Now is a good time to try
the horn, the signals, the lights, and other electrical items.
Accessories
Play the radio if you want to check out the sound system. You may want to take
your favourite tape or CD when you hunt for cars. Try the air-conditioner while
idling and during high speeds. You might want to turn it off before going for a
test drive to see how the car performs without it. One can check the pick-up of
the car with and without A/C operation.
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