GENERAL INFORMATION AND CAR BUYING TIPS
Some of the following is specific to California, but you may find something that will help you in your search for reliable transportation.
MECHANIC'S CHECK
THE PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER OF A VEHICLE MAY AT HIS OR HER OWN EXPENSE AND WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE DEALER, HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT THIRD PARTY EITHER ON OR OFF THESE PREMISES. EFFECTIVE DATE JANUARY 1, 1991 REFERENCE AB 3243 CHAPTER 1563
This is always a good idea when purchasing a used vehicle. Digs Wheels encourages all customers to have a potential purchase evaluated by a trusted mechanic. However, keep in mind you want to know the condition of the particular vehicle you are having inspected, not just general statements made by your mechanic which may be biased due to his/her preference for a certain make of vehicle. Example....your mechanic says not to buy a Honda Prelude because he doesn't like that model of car. That is his opinion in general, and tells you nothing as to the condition of the particular vehicle you want to buy. We have seen many people over the years miss out on a good deal just because of a mechanic's bias.
ITEMS TO INSPECT BEFORE PURCHASING
Below is a list of some major defects that may occur in used motor vehicles. Frame & Body Frame-cracks, corrective welds, or rusted through Dogtracks-bent or twisted frame Engine Oil leakage, excluding normal seepage Cracked block or head Belts missing or inoperable Knocks or misses related to camshaft lifters and push rods Abnormal exhaust discharge Transmission & Drive Shaft Improper fluid level or leakage, excluding normal seepage Cracked or damaged case which is visible Abnormal noise or vibration caused by faulty transmission or drive shaft Improper shifting or functioning in any gear Manual clutch slips or chatters Differential Improper fluid level or leakage excluding normal seepage Cracked or damaged housing which is visible Abnormal noise or vibration caused by faulty differential Cooling System Leakage including radiator Improperly functioning water pump Electrical System Battery leakage Improperly functioning alternator, generator, battery, or starter Fuel System Visible leakage Inoperable Accessories Gauges or warning devices Air conditioner Heater & Defroster Brake System Failure warning light broken Pedal not firm under pressure (DOT spec.) Not enough pedal reserve (DOT spec.) Does not stop vehicle in straight line(DOT spec.) Hoses damaged Drum or rotor too thin (Mfr. Specs.) Lining or pad thickness less than 1/32 inch Power unit not operating or leaking Structural or mechanical parts damaged Steering System Too much free play at steering wheel (Dot specs.) Free play in linkage more than 1/4 inch Steering gear binds or jams Front wheels aligned improperly (DOT spec.) Power unit belts cracked or slipping Power unit fluid level improper Suspension System Ball joint seals damaged Structural parts bent or damaged Stabilizer bar disconnected Spring broken Shock absorber mounting loose Rubber bushings damaged or missing Radius rod damaged or missing Shock absorber leaking or functioning improperly Tires Tread depth less than 2/32 inch Sizes mismatched Visible damage Wheels Visible cracks, damage or repairs Mounting bolts loose or missing Exhaust System Leakage REFERENCE FEDERAL BUYERS GUIDE (16 C.F.R. 456)
You should check these parts in order to make an informed decision about your purchase. If one or more items on the list are worn or damaged that doesn't necessarily mean it is a bad car. It is just something you should be aware of when making your decision.
IS MILEAGE IMPORTANT
Mileage, like age, is a relative thing. If two cars have identical age, condition and price, then the odometer reading would be the deciding factor in the purchase decision. In a true life situation, the condition and price are much more important than how many miles the car has been driven. We believe all cars are built to last at least 200,000 miles if properly maintained. The average California driver drives 15,000 miles per year. An average 8 year old car, therefore, will have driven on average 120,000 miles. That would be a 2000 model year car right now.
We specialize in cars and trucks under $8000.00, so of course they will have been driven on a daily basis for several years. We know from experience, that condition for the price is the key of good value. Is mileage important? Yes, but only in relation to the price and condition. Most important is how many MORE miles will the car go for YOU! We smog and safety check all our offerings to ensure you will receive good value for your money. We work hard at selling good vehicles at fair prices to nice people. Click here to ask a question.
COOLING OFF PERIOD AND CANCELLATION OPTION
"California law does not provide for a cooling off or other cancellation period for vehicle lease or purchase contracts. Therefore, you cannot later cancel such a contract simply because you change your mind, decide the vehicle costs too much, or wish you had acquired a different vehicle. After you sign a motor vehicle purchase or lease contract it may only be canceled with the agreement of the seller or lessor or for legal cause, such as fraud."
However, California law does require a seller to offer a 2-day contract cancellation option on used vehicles with a purchase price of less than $40,000, subject to certain statutory conditions. This contract cancellation option requirement does not apply to the sale of a motorcycle or an off-highway motor vehicle subject to identification under California law. See the vehicle contract cancellation option agreement for details.
This notice is now required to be posted in California Auto Dealerships, and is part of a standard California sales agreement.
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