Used car. Is it better to buy in winter or summer?
It is generally accepted that it is better not to buy a used car in winter. The reason for this approach may be the fear of buyers that frost, snow or mud will make it difficult to accurately check the car being viewed. Meanwhile, according to automotive market experts, winter is the best time to buy a used car.
– It is thanks to winter weather conditions that we can immediately learn more about the car we are viewing, for example, how the engine and electronic systems react to freezing temperatures and whether the seller really cares about the car, as indicated in the advertisement. In addition, if there is snow or slush on the road, it will be a good opportunity to check the condition of some safety-relevant vehicle systems, such as ABS, and to pre-check the suspension system during a test drive, advises Michal Oglecki, Technical Director of the Masterlease Group.
Cold helps to check the technical condition of the car
Thanks to winter weather, the buyer will be able to check, first of all, how the ignition and starter systems work in low temperatures. With the so-called "cold start" problems are identified with the glow plugs, battery or alternator in the case of diesel engines. On the contrary, devices with gasoline engines can detect problems with spark plugs or high voltage cable.
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Freezing temperatures will also help check the status of electrical components, such as the windows going up and down, or the operation of window/mirror heaters, as well as the health of the electronics, such as the functionality of all displays.
If the seller assured in the ad that the car is well maintained and washed regularly, it will be easier to verify these assurances in winter. If, upon inspection, the car is snow-free, clean, there is no slush on winter tires and carpets, this can be considered a clear sign that the seller really cares about it.
Test drive required
Contrary to what seems to be the compacted snow on the road and sub-zero temperatures are the ideal conditions for checking the technical condition of the car during a test drive. At the same time, if possible, it is best to perform it on different surfaces. This will be an opportunity to test the operation of, among other things, the ABS system and whether the car clings to the road well. And if the car is not “warmed up” by the previous trip, the frozen metal and rubber elements will allow you to hear all the play in the drive system.
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