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BeckyOliver's Blog

by BeckyOliver from Dallas

Last Post 514 days, 4 hours Ago


One of the most common complaints I get is about used cars. Every day I hear from people who buy vehicles "as is" and then complain the car broke down right after they drove off the lot. I tell people "as is" means just that. The best advice I can give is to get a second opinion before you ever buy a used car. Find a reliable mechanic who can check out the car from bumper to bumper. You need to know if it has been in a wreck, you want to check the odometer for a possible roll back and you need to see what kind of shape the engine is in. If you don't know a mechanic there are mobile units that will drive to the location and check out the car. If a dealership or private owner does not want you to check out the car, that would be a red flag for me and I would start looking for another car. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car. Don't let your excitement get in the way of making a good business decision. You need to do your homework. It will save you a major headache down the road. Good Luck.
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amills2473 read my blog view my photos
Apr 9, 2007 | 2:12 PM

I have one idea to help people also. It's a simple check that anyone can do themselves and may save them the time and expense of having a mechanic come out.
The vehicle must be running to perform this check. Pop the hood and remove the oil filler cap from the top of the valve cover. This will allow you to check for blow-by on the engine. Hold your hand an inch or so above the opening and feel the air coming out. You are looking for a smooth, steady flow of air. If it "puffs" then the engine has internal engine wear and you need to start looking at another vehicle. Doesn't mean the engine will shut down in the next 5 or even 500 miles. But it does mean the engine has alot of rough miles on it.

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BeckyOliver

I have worked at Fox4 for the past 16 years. What I like best about investigative reporting is feeling like we are a voice for the community and helping people get issues resolved. We get hundreds of emails every day and while we cannot answer all of them or focus on them for stories, we try to help people or point them in the right direction.

Member Since: 4/9/2007