Used car expert shares lesser-known check to avoid rip-offs

A respected motorist has advised all motorists to consider two commonly overlooked things when looking at a used car for sale.

Grant runs the YouTube channel Scottish Car Clan and often makes videos recommending reliable used models and responding to developments in the automotive world.

In a recent video, the car expert shares tips to help drivers buy a reliable used car and urges all potential buyers to know exactly when to check for leaks.

He advised: “You should definitely get down and take a look under the car. However, this is where people often make mistakes. They do this before taking a test drive, which means any unscrupulous salesman has made a mistake.” You have the opportunity to clean up any mess so you get there and everything down here looks pristine.

“So, here’s the best tip: take a test drive and then check. Make sure everything is as clean as before.”

Over time, it is only natural for some vehicles to experience small fluid leaks due to worn components. However, not only do they spoil the appearance of driveways, they can also lead to higher running costs and expensive engine wear and tear that can cost thousands of pounds to repair.

To avoid purchasing a car that leaks, Grant recommended that drivers take the model for a test drive and then thoroughly inspect the underside.

In this way, the seller has no chance of concealing any leaks he suspects from the vehicle, reducing the risk of being scammed with a faulty model.

Later in the video, Grant also recommended that drivers check during the test drive to see if the model’s clutch is slipping, which can be a costly mistake to correct.

He continued: “Here is one thing that people often neglect to check and again they get charged a big bill and that is the clutch. Now if you buy a car with a manual transmission, make sure the clutch is right. It doesn’t slip and works perfectly.

“The best way to do this? Hit the open road, put it in fourth or fifth gear, accelerate to 3,000 rpm and floor the throttle like you’re heading to the next Fast and Furious movie. Make sure that…” The speed of the car increases with the speed of the engine.

Over time, a worn clutch may become difficult to engage or disengage with the transmission, causing the car to slip out of gear, especially when accelerating.

Therefore, drivers should avoid any car that is difficult to shift gears or that accelerates poorly or unevenly even though the engine revs relatively hard.

Even if the vehicle is offered at a bargain price, it is generally best to avoid models with these symptoms, as a replacement clutch can cost between £300 and £1,000.