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Viewing some used cars tomorrow: any tips? (feddit.uk)

submitted 8 months ago* (last edited 8 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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So some idiot crashed into my car on Monday night (whilst it was parked). The best part? It's happened twice in two years. Fun right?

Anyway. I'm viewing some cars tomorrow. I've got a budget. 4k at an absolute maximum (primarily because I'm convinced it's going to get wrecked again).

I'm going on my own and I know next to nothing about cars so I'd really appreciate any tips or clues as to what to look out for.

Update

Looking at some more cars tomorrow with my step Dad. Fingers crossed. Your advice has been very helpful. Cheers.

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 8 months ago (1 children)

Look for rust or outside dirt in the engine compartment. It's a tell tale sign the car was under water. I live in a very flood-prone area and after a big flood they had a lot of ruined cars go back on the used market. Those lemons were even shipped out of country to be sold.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 8 months ago (1 children)

dirt in the engine compartment doesnt always mean flooded car

[–] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago

It would be at a dealership. They can power wash it away anyways. I wasn't as specific as I meant to be. Mold and discolored paint on the body part of the compartment is where it would show. It usually has a dirty faded look