Buying a used car can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. You’re looking for a reliable vehicle without breaking the bank, but the fear of hidden problems always looms. One crucial step many used car buyers overlook is getting a diagnostic check. So, should you get a diagnostic check on a used car? The short answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why it’s a non-negotiable part of your pre-purchase inspection.
A diagnostic check, often performed with a car scanner, is like getting a health check-up for a vehicle’s computer system. Modern cars are complex machines controlled by numerous electronic control units (ECUs) that monitor everything from the engine and transmission to the braking system and airbags. A diagnostic scan can reveal trouble codes stored in these ECUs, signaling potential or existing issues that might not be immediately apparent during a visual inspection or even a test drive.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t buy a house without a home inspection, would you? Similarly, skipping a diagnostic check on a used car is a gamble you shouldn’t take. It’s a relatively small investment that can save you from major headaches and costly repairs down the road. Imagine purchasing a car that seems fine on the surface, only to discover a week later that it has a hidden transmission problem, as illustrated in a firsthand account: “right when we were pulling back into her driveway you could feel a thump that literally felt like getting kicked in the rear end. I’m sure something in the transmission must have went.” This kind of issue could be flagged during a diagnostic check, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repair bills.
Moreover, a diagnostic check can be a powerful tool in negotiations. If the scan reveals fault codes, you have concrete evidence to discuss potential problems with the seller. This can give you leverage to negotiate a lower price to compensate for the necessary repairs, or even walk away from a potentially problematic vehicle altogether. As one experienced used car buyer put it, “It’s a disqualifier, really. It’s so you don’t waste time with the car, taking it to a mechanic, etc. when you wouldn’t have had to had you done the scan check.” In some cases, simply mentioning a diagnostic scan can reveal the seller’s true intentions. If a seller refuses to allow a diagnostic check, it’s a major red flag. “And then you have some people like guys in this thread ‘I will never let anyone hook up a scanner to my car.’ That’s fine. You pull the scanner out you just saved yourself a bunch of time, if just seeing you with a scanner makes them scared, you know you don’t want to buy that car.” Their reluctance often indicates they are hiding something and are aware of existing problems they don’t want you to discover.
While a diagnostic check is invaluable, it’s important to remember it’s just one part of a comprehensive used car inspection. Always combine it with a thorough test drive, ideally including highway speeds and various driving conditions, as some issues only become apparent under specific circumstances. “I would definitely take a thorough test drive including at least 15 -20 minutes at highway speeds. Many cars seem fine a low speed but only when you get it up to highway speeds can you feel or hear certain kinds of problems.” Furthermore, consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic for a more in-depth evaluation, especially for older or higher-mileage vehicles.
In conclusion, getting a diagnostic check on a used car is not just a good idea – it’s an essential step in protecting yourself from buying a lemon. It provides crucial insights into the vehicle’s health, empowers you in negotiations, and ultimately brings peace of mind. Don’t skip this vital step; equip yourself with a car scanner or take the car to a professional for a diagnostic check before you finalize the purchase. It’s a small price to pay for avoiding potential future headaches and ensuring you drive away with a used car you can truly rely on.
