Used Car Buying - Engine Inspection

What to look for when starting the engine of a used car

Look for smoke that comes from the exhaust pipe when the car starts. Smoking at start up is a sign of internal engine wear and will be evident especially upon cold starting. Having a friend start the car while you watch the tailpipe is helpful.





Back to the engine compartment you can check to see if the car is burning oil by removing the engine oil dipstick slightly from its proper resting position. When you open the oil dipstick and signs of smoke coming from the dipstick hole is a sign of burning oil. This is referred to as blow by which is indicating engine oil that is making it past the piston rings and igniting as part of the internal combustion of the engine.

Burning oil is a sign of internal engine wear

Burling oil is like leaking oil in that it is a sign of a vehicle which has not been maintained properly. Be sure to be careful around the engine of a car that is running as there are many dangerous and moving parts which can cause grievous harm to you should you. As with any machinery operation no loose clothes, neck ties, or dangling jewelry should be worn when working around a running engine.





The next stage of the used car buying tutorial covers inspecting the transmission. Since the transmission is difficult to inspect and can be one of the most costly repair items on a car this section is critical.