Inspect for signs of water leakage, too. Is there dampness or rust in the area where the roof stores away? What about in and under the foot-well carpeting? Does the cabin smell like mildew, possibly masked with Febreeze? Do the leather seats, if so equipped, have any areas with signs of excessive strain along the stitches?
All of these signs could indicate a problematic water leak which could lead to damage and rust. And of course, nothing ruins a date in your new roadster like getting soaked in the rain.
Check the convertible’s overall condition
Some convertible sellers have loved their machines and maintained them religiously. Others haven’t. Guess which seller you’d most like to buy from?
To ensure you aren’t getting yourself a convertible that’s been neglected, be sure to check the levels and conditions of all accessible fluids, and ‘feel’ the engine for signs of sputtering or ‘lumpy’ acceleration. The latter may indicate the engine is in need of a tune-up, or more.
Check the tires and brakes, and never assume the seller isn’t trying to pass off a worn-out set of tires and brake pads. If the convertible you’re considering has a manual transmission, note that clutch ‘slippage’ or a grinding sensation when shifting usually indicates that a disc replacement or transmission failure may be in the vehicle’s near future.
On the road, any popping, clunking or grinding sensations when steering or travelling over bumps typically indicates a worn-out or broken suspension component.
Look for signs of fluid leaks beneath where the vehicle is parked too or have a look around underneath yourself. Ask the seller for all service records too and compare them to the maintenance requirements outlined for the vehicle in its owner’s manual.
Peace of mind—the Pre-Purchase Inspection
Your best bet for peace of mind? A pre-purchase inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic. With the car in the air, said mechanic can use a skilled eye to check for potential issues, abnormal wear and signs of damage.
Remember that a pre-purchase inspection might cost a hundred bucks or two but it could save you from buying a car that’s about to require thousands of dollars in repairs. After all, convertibles tend to be more enjoyable when they’re not in the shop making plans for your next pay-cheque.
All of these signs could indicate a problematic water leak which could lead to damage and rust. And of course, nothing ruins a date in your new roadster like getting soaked in the rain.
Check the convertible’s overall condition
Some convertible sellers have loved their machines and maintained them religiously. Others haven’t. Guess which seller you’d most like to buy from?
To ensure you aren’t getting yourself a convertible that’s been neglected, be sure to check the levels and conditions of all accessible fluids, and ‘feel’ the engine for signs of sputtering or ‘lumpy’ acceleration. The latter may indicate the engine is in need of a tune-up, or more.
Check the tires and brakes, and never assume the seller isn’t trying to pass off a worn-out set of tires and brake pads. If the convertible you’re considering has a manual transmission, note that clutch ‘slippage’ or a grinding sensation when shifting usually indicates that a disc replacement or transmission failure may be in the vehicle’s near future.
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| To ensure you aren’t getting yourself a convertible that’s been neglected, be sure to check the levels and conditions of all accessible fluid. |
On the road, any popping, clunking or grinding sensations when steering or travelling over bumps typically indicates a worn-out or broken suspension component.
Look for signs of fluid leaks beneath where the vehicle is parked too or have a look around underneath yourself. Ask the seller for all service records too and compare them to the maintenance requirements outlined for the vehicle in its owner’s manual.
Peace of mind—the Pre-Purchase Inspection
Your best bet for peace of mind? A pre-purchase inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic. With the car in the air, said mechanic can use a skilled eye to check for potential issues, abnormal wear and signs of damage.
Remember that a pre-purchase inspection might cost a hundred bucks or two but it could save you from buying a car that’s about to require thousands of dollars in repairs. After all, convertibles tend to be more enjoyable when they’re not in the shop making plans for your next pay-cheque.