Check for stains or missing parts. Apply strong pressure to the brake pedal for at least thirty seconds. If the pedal keeps going to the floor, you've got a brake leakage. When the engine is idling, put your foot on the brake and slip the transmission from neutral to reserve and neutral to drive. A loud clunk means the transmission bands need tightening.
Test drive the car for thirty to forty-five minutes.
Make sure the gears shift smoothly, the brakes don't make strange noises, and the steering wheel doesn't jerk and resist when you turn it. Turn the wheel sharply to make sure the car doesn't bounce or sway too much. Check to see if the tires match and are worn evenly. Doing these things will prevent you from discovering problems after purchasing the car, when it is too late. Inc. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site.