How to check a used car How to check a used car 1. Check the front CV joints, the front wheels, and the wheel wells for grease. It may indicate bad seals and may need replacing. Any problems with the seals will show on the ground. Check to see if the oil is clean.
Dirty oil is a sure sign of neglect.
Check to see if there is oil covering the external parts of the engine. This is a sign of leaks that are expensive to fix. The best way to check the exhaust system is to get under the car and grab the muffler to see if it will fall apart in your hands. A rusty muffler will not live very long. Any part in there that looks like it's new or is covered with fresh paint is an indication that the car has been in an accident.