i am getting a used car soon (my first car). it should be a integra.

is there anything i can check for myself and see if there is nothing wrong with it.
is there like a checklist of what i gotta look out for and change after i get it?

 

Make sure the timing belt has been changed at 96000km/60000mi (there should be a little sticker) This is expensive to replace and must be done. Make sure the brakes work fine and the steering wheel doesn't shake while you brake (if it does, it's probably warped rotors which will cost you money). Make sure the engine sounds good at high rpm. Drive it hard on the test drive to make sure it does what you want. If it's automatic, make sure it goes into gear quickly without clunking, and it SHOULD NOT shift hard. Shifts should be smooth, even under hard acceleration (and check that the transmission fluid isn't burnt, it should be a bright red). If it's manual, make sure the clutch isn't worn out (it should disengage from the gear without you having to slam it to the floor every time). When you drive, listen for rattles or creaks that could be really annoying later on.

Make sure the steering wheel doesn't shake at highway speeds, and check the tires to see if they have enough tread depth and aren't worn unevenly. Check that the sound system works fine without blown speakers (if it doesn't you can negotiate money off their asking price). Check for dents, scratches, rust. Check the condition of the interior. Does it look okay? No cigarette burns, etc (if there is, negotiate money off).

-Better yet, pay the $60 to $100 for a FULL MECHANICAL INSPECTION from an independent dealer (like go to the acura dealer that's NOT selling that car). They can uncover safety related defects, and other issues that aren't easily noticeable.

-GET A LIEN CHECK!! Make sure there are no loans against the car before you buy it!!

-Get the insurance or registries company (i forget which one to go to) to run the VIN number to check for a history of accidents. If that car has been in an accident, do NOT buy it, even if it was repaired.

That's all I can think of for now.

 

if the timing belt aint changed, clutch problems, weak brakes, and the rotors are warped, can i tell the used car dealership to change everything for free or just negotiate the price?

 

Um yes. That is what negotiating is all about. Plus, if the car has a lein on it, don't worry-it doesn't matter if money is owed on the car, just a couple of more papers to sign.

Plus, get a Carfax or similar to check for accidents.

 

btw, i can hire a local acura technician to inspect the car for $60-$100? wow

 

It's worth it, hire him.