sava

• Where can you find the best bargains?
  - At dealerships which offer the best choice of recent model vehicles with low kilometrage, but available at higher prices.
  - At independent resellers, but beware of those who have no repair facilities on the premises or who offer recent model vehicles with high kilometrage.
  - Through individuals, where prices are more affordable, but where no other warranties are available except the remainder of the vehicle's original warranty.
  - In all cases, make sure that the vehicle's origin is correctly stipulated on the documents supplied to you, that the maintenance record is up- to- date and that copies of all major repair bills have been supplied.
  
  
• Vehicle inspection
  - Check the body in full daylight, look for repainting, any indication of previous accidents and make a detailed evaluation of the degree of rust present, especially on doors and the trunk lid.
  - Wear patterns on tires are an indication whether balancing is good, tar residues on the end of the exhaust pipe indicates that the engine is burning oil because valves or other parts need replacement. Test shock absorbers by leaning hard on the vehicle, which should not bounce more than twice, and examine the exhaust system.
  
• Test driving the vehicle
  - After examining the vehicle while it is standing still, you should insist on test driving it yourself. Take someone with you and have them sit in the back of the vehicle to detect any suspicious noises. As a first step, press down on pedals before starting the engine. The gas pedal and the clutch pedal should be firm and should return quickly to the normal position when released. Verify controls and dials on the instrument panel, check inside lights, headlights, and taillights: everything shoud be in good working order.
  - The engine should start smoothly, with no unusual noises, knocking whistling or rattling. Engage the handbrake and try to accelerate. The vehicle should go forward slightly, if not, the clutch or the transmission needs adjusting. When in motion, gear shifting should be smooth on automatic transmissions. It should be easy and precise on manual transmissions and the clutch pedal should not need excessive pressure.
  - Use a clear area to apply brakes at 50 km/h; they should respond energetically and the vehicle should not deviate from its trajectory. On an incline, it should not move any further when the handbrake is engaged.
  - Whe you return from the test drive, let the engine idle for a few minutes, move the vehicle forward, and check the ground for evidence of leaks.
  
• Things to remember
  - Verify the origin of the vehicle with the manufacturer and with your insurance agent.
  - When purchasing a privately owned vehicle, draw up a sales contract and include all pertinent details: the names and addressed of both parties, the vehicle's description, its serial number, the price you have actually paid.
  - After the purchase, in writing, notify the manufacturer that you are the new owner of the vehicle and include its serial number; this will ensure that you can take advantage of the remainder of the original warranty and that you will receive notice of any future recalls.
  

摘自 The Canadian Used Car Guide  2001-2002, by Doniel Heraud

正踅摸旧车，看到点资料，敲出来供大家参考，打字打到手酸，希望不是白费

rocco

多谢～～～～～～～～