Inspect a Used Convertible Before Buying
Inspecting a convertible requires more attention than a typical vehicle. Because of the unique safety and mechanical concerns, learning how to inspect a used convertible before buying one is critical. The absolute last thing you want is a lemon on your hands. Don't get swindled and be sure you get the facts. The convertible facts, that is.
Contents
Steps
- Evaluate the entire car. Even if the car has a fashionable body style in your favorite color, it's important to stay focused on a thorough evaluation, especially if you're dealing with a persuasive sales person.
- Walk around the vehicle, closely inspecting the convertible for any obvious damage or rust. Examine the doors and bumpers for dents or scratches.
- When inspecting a used convertible, examine the hood and trunk for hail damage. Even the slightest dings will devalue the convertible.
- Scrutinize the doors, hood and trunk. If the doors or trunk are difficult to open or close or make a scraping noise, or if the car has a bad paint job, it may be an indication that the car has been wrecked.
- Check the interior. Be leery of any odors in the carpet, upholstery, or trunk. Look for rust or discolored metal in the trunk. These may indicate the presence of moisture. Or worse, the car may have been in a flood.
- Unless you have a good reason to pursue the car (if it's a classic worth restoring, for example), you should probably walk away if it's had flood damage.
- Flood water can cause mechanical and electrical failures in a car, causing the engine to misfire or blow gaskets.
- Bacteria from flood water trapped in the vents or upholstery may pose health risks.
- Start the engine. Listen for unusual noises, and check under the car for fluid leaks. Sometimes oil only leaks with the engine running. A puddle larger than 3 inches (7.62 cm) is regarded as serious. Water dripping from the air conditioner is normal and is not a problem.
- Drive the car to continue the test. Before driving, inspect a convertible the same as other vehicles. Verify all light bulbs are working. Examine the tires for tread wear before taking to the road. On the test drive, make sure the transmission shifts smoothly, and test the brakes.
- Test the convertible top. If the car seems mechanically sound, it's time to test the mechanical and electrical integrity of the convertible top. Typical problems with convertibles sometimes involve the complex system of brackets and springs, the fabric, and the latching mechanism.
- Verify that the switch is functioning properly. The motor that opens and closes the top should be fairly quiet and move the convertible top easily. Ensure the top latches satisfactorily.
- Typically made of a 3-ply composite of fabric woven with plastics, tops are extremely durable, but inspect the material for noticeable wear and tear.
- Check the latching mechanism. If you have trouble latching the top, it's possible the fabric may have shrunk. Follow up with a dealer to determine the problem.
Tips
- Before buying a convertible, it's advisable to run an online car fact check to discover any possible recalls, collisions, etc.
