Greetings Everyone,
Purchasing a pre-owned automobile can be a significant financial commitment and shouldn't be taken lightly. The last thing you want, especially in times like these, is to be stuck with a lemon that's in the shop every week.
I consider myself an expert in my field, and many of you know me as a true European car enthusiast. Before I became an independent automobile dealer, I worked as an automotive technician for Volkswagen, and prior to that, DaimlerChrysler. Because of my love for the technical aspect of cars, I continue to keep current with vehicle service, repair, and maintenance information. I also keep my ASE Master Technician Certification up to date, and in fact I just re-certified for the next 5 years. In my spare time, I still continue to service and repair cars (mostly VW and Audi products for friends and family, and inventory vehicles) to keep my skills sharp and knowledge current. As you can imagine, this is truly a unique background to have for an independent automobile dealer and comes in handy when purchasing cars at the auction and later presenting them to customers. If you have a question, chances are, I can answer it. Drawing from this knowledge and experience of servicing and purchasing European cars, I wanted to share some important information and give you some things to look for when considering purchasing a car from your local dealer or even a private party seller.
It is my opinion that when you purchase a pre-owned late model European automobile such as a VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, or Porsche you are getting the most car for your money as far as build quality, options/features, and ownership satisfaction. But as with all vehicles that have a few miles on them, service and maintenance needs to be completed in order to keep them in optimal running condition.
First, make sure that the vehicle you are considering is up to date on its maintenance service. Generally, major services are only required every 20,000-40,000 miles, these include replacement of filters and fluids that are vital to the proper function of the powertrain and chassis. I've noticed there's a common misconception that European cars require a lot of maintenance compared to Asian vehicles. This is not the case, and in fact most models actually require less maintenance than your average Asian car in the same class. Most late model European cars use a synthetic lifetime coolant/antifreeze formula, lifetime transmission oil, lifetime fuel filters, and have extended oil change intervals-some can even go 15,000 miles or more between oil changes. Also, they don't require periodic valve adjustments like some Asian vehicles. This all adds up to savings at the workshop. Every car that leaves Peterson Motor Company is fully serviced and up to date on all required maintenance. Any mechanical repairs that were needed have been done as well.
Take the car on a thorough test drive and make sure there are no warning lights illuminated in the instrument cluster. The seller tells you, "Oh, I had it checked out already and it's an easy fix, it will only cost $100, I just don't have the time". Maybe, but even if that was the case, unless you're a do-it-yourselfer you don't want to have to deal with it after the purchase and most likely it will cost more, so have them fix it. Also, check for things like clicking noises from the c/v axle joints when making low speed sharp turns, and take the car over some bumps to check the suspension and steering. If there is something loose or worn, it will be more apparent over a speed bump or uneven roads. Don't be afraid to get the car on a highway and open it up a little to check the engine performance. If you don't do this, you might find out later on that there is an issue under full load, like a bad mass airflow sensor, or worse, the transmission is slipping.
When you get back from the test drive, take a good look at the body of the car and make sure the paint is nice and glossy. Paint and other vehicle surfaces also need to be maintained, and it helps to have the finish professionally polished at least once a year. Every vehicle that leaves Peterson Motor Company has been professionally detailed inside and out.
If you don't feel comfortable inspecting these items yourself, ask the seller if you can take the car and have it inspected by an ASE certified repair facility or automotive technician of your choice.
I hope you found this post informative and thanks for considering Peterson Motor Co. for your next vehicle purchase. Feel free to contact me any time at info@petersonmotorcompany.com for advice, or just to chat about cars.
-Ian
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