The Simplest Way to Check a Used Car Engine

How to check the engine of a used car is one tip that must be understood before buying a used car. You wouldn't want to spend a lot of money only to find that the used car you bought is in questionable condition, right? Especially if this is your first time buying a car.

But before proceeding to check the condition of the car's engine, it's best to check the physical condition of the car first to avoid disappointment if something doesn't meet your expectations. Checking the physical condition of the car refers to its visible condition. Here are some guidelines you can follow before buying a used car.

Look at the body of the car from the front, back, left, right, and top. Check for any dents or not. Also, pay attention to how many dents, rust spots, scratches, and the condition of the paint on the used car you want to buy.
Check the trunk of the car. Try to choose a car with a trunk that is still in good condition. If there are signs of damage in the trunk, such as visible holes or gaps, it indicates that the previous driver often carried heavy loads.
Inspect the metal frame connecting the right and left fenders and serving as the top mount for the radiator. This metal should not be welded on the sides but bolted. Any scratches or misalignment indicate that the car has been in an accident. Also, check the inside of the car door frame.
If possible, check the underside of the car. Check the exhaust system. If there are black spots, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the engine. Also, check the structure of the underside to see if it is still in good condition or if there are many rusted parts.

Once you have checked the physical condition of the car, you can directly check the condition of the car's engine by opening the front hood and inspecting the engine compartment. Here are some components to pay attention to.

1. Hood

Check the inside of the car's hood. Are there any signs of dents or excessive rust? This could indicate whether the car has been well maintained or not. Also, check if the vehicle identification number label is still clearly readable. This number is important for transferring ownership or managing the Motor Vehicle Tax (PKB).

2. Check various hoses, cables, and belts

A used car that is still in good condition will show in the condition of the hoses, cables, and belts connected inside the hood. Avoid parts that are holed, feel brittle, and soft, as you will definitely have to spend more money to replace these engine parts.

3. Check the engine block

Inspect the engine block for signs of rust, leaks, or corrosion. If there are dark brown oil stains, it indicates a leak that may require significant repair costs in the future. Brake fluid and its reservoir are also important. Various connecting belts in the engine should look like new. There should be no cracks and they should appear dry.

4. Engine oil cap

Try opening the engine oil cap. If there are signs of foam on the inside, it indicates a leak in the cylinder head gasket. Also, check the condition of the coolant fluid in the radiator reservoir. Brownish fluid that tends to be dirty could be a sign that this car is rarely serviced.

5. Transmission oil dipstick

Open the transmission oil cap. If the used car is in good condition, there should be no burnt smell. The transmission oil should also be pink or darker and not smell burnt. Good oil condition also indicates that this car is frequently serviced.

6. Timing belt

Check the condition of the timing belt. This is a belt that is quite expensive to replace. Or if there is no timing belt, check the timing chain instead.

These are the tips and ways to check the engine of a used car that you can apply if you want to buy a second-hand car. This way, at least you will have a better understanding of which used cars are worth buying and which are not.

Author: Dinno Baskoro