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Buying a used car is a smart way to save money—but only if you know what to look for. In London, Ontario, used cars are everywhere, but not all deals are good deals. Whether you're buying from a dealership or a private seller, here’s a helpful checklist to make sure you’re making a safe, smart decision.

1. Check the Car's Exterior and Interior Condition

Start with a walkaround inspection. Look for dents, scratches, or signs of rust. Open all doors, check the trunk, and look at the roof. Inside, test the seats, lights, windows, locks, and dashboard indicators. A clean interior usually shows the car has been well-maintained.

2. Inspect the Engine and Transmission

Pop the hood and check for oil leaks, burnt smells, or unusual sounds. Look at fluid levels like engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. If the car jerks while shifting gears or the engine struggles to start, it’s a red flag. Learn more about engine repair or transmission services if you notice any issues.

3. Test the Brakes and Tires

Brakes are critical. Listen for squealing sounds when stopping, and test how the car handles at different speeds. Uneven tire wear may indicate alignment problems. To be safe, visit our brake service or tire service pages for more details.

4. Examine the Suspension and Alignment

Take the car for a drive and notice how it handles bumps. If it feels bouncy or drifts to one side, there may be suspension or alignment issues. These can be costly to fix. Explore our suspension and alignment services before buying.

5. Check Vehicle History and Ownership

Always ask for a full Carfax report or similar vehicle history. This will reveal if the car was in any accidents, how many owners it had, and whether it was ever used as a rental or commercial vehicle.

6. Test the AC, Battery, and Electrical System

Turn on the air conditioner, headlights, wipers, and stereo to make sure everything works. Also, check the battery for corrosion or slow starts. Visit our AC repair, battery, or electrical repair pages if needed.

7. Schedule a Professional Safety Inspection

Before finalizing your purchase, book a safety inspection with a certified mechanic. It helps identify hidden issues and ensures the vehicle meets Ontario safety standards. Our team offers safety inspections in London Ontario to give you peace of mind.

8. Don’t Skip the Test Drive

Take the car on the highway, through stop-and-go traffic, and over bumps. Notice how it accelerates, brakes, and turns. A 10–15 minute test drive can reveal a lot.

Final Tip: Work With a Trusted Auto Shop

Whether you're buying from a friend or a dealership, it’s always smart to get the car inspected by professionals. Empire Service Center is here to help with pre-purchase checks and complete car care in London, Ontario.

Ready to buy a used car? Make sure you check everything above—and drive away with confidence.