When buying a used car you need to do your homework.  This includes doing a thorough inspection of the vehicle, and don’t forget to look under the hood. You don’t want to end up with a car that will leave you stranded calling for road service.  Here are some things you need to be aware of.

Squeeze all of the various rubber hoses that run to the air conditioner, radiator, etc.  The rubber shouldn’t feel hard or mushy.  In addition, there shouldn’t be cracks.  Make sure it is supple and firm.  Also, make sure the drive belts are frayed.

Check all of the fluid levels in the car.  You can consult your owner’s manual to know where to look.  You should have dark brown or black oil.  It it’s honey colored, it means it was changed recently.  If the oil is foamy or gray, it might mean there is a cracked engine block or a head gasket that is blown.  You should have pinkish transmission fluid, not brown.

Also, take a look at the battery.  Batteries that are “maintenance free” have a charge indicator that is built in.  Green means that the battery is still good, where yellow or black means the battery is no good.

With any car purchase, it is important to have an auto warranty just in case of unforeseen repairs.  After all, you don’t want to be stuck with unnecessary repair costs.