---

NAPA's Checklist for Buying a Used Car

31 August 1999

NAPA's Checklist for Buying a Used Car; Six Maintenance Areas Your Technician Should Inspect

    ATLANTA, Aug. 31 -- Today buying a used car means getting
more for your money.  But it also requires research and negotiating, which
starts with a visit to your trusted technician for a thorough inspection.
    The used-car marketplace is rapidly expanding as the quality of cars
increases.  Nearly 45 million used cars will be sold in the United States this
year compared to 15 million new cars.  With the growing trend in used-car
sales, it is more important than ever to establish a relationship with a
reliable, trustworthy automotive technician.
    Your technician will be able to tell you if the vehicle has been in an
accident and evaluate the quality of any past repairs.  You will also receive
an educated, professional assessment of potential problems the car may have
down the road.
    "A comprehensive inspection of the vehicle may cost you anywhere from $50
to $150," said NAPA Director of Technical Services Jim Kiple.  "That's a small
price to pay when the results of the inspection give you negotiating power and
save you from a maintenance headache."
    NAPA (National Automotive Parts Association) recommends you have a
technician check the following areas before purchasing a used car:

    ENGINE -- The engine is the most crucial and expensive part of the vehicle
so it should get the most thorough checkup.  Take note of fluid leaks
underneath the engine as well as the fluid's color.  Gently tug at major parts
and make sure there are no loose components or signs of rust.

    STEERING -- The vehicle should not drift to one side when hands are taken
off the wheel, nor should the steering wheel vibrate or shake.  This is a
strong indication that the wheels need to be properly aligned or balanced.

    BRAKES -- If the car pulls to one side when brakes are applied, they may
be malfunctioning.  Grinding, squealing, chatter or screeching should also be
checked out.

    TIRES -- Tires should be worn evenly from side to side.  If they are not,
it's an indicator of improper alignment, poor components or at the very least,
hard driving.

    ELECTRIC GADGETS -- Every door should be opened and closed, every window
rolled up and down, every light turned on and off, the radio and tape player
should be played and every switch should be applied to ensure proper function.
The heater, air-conditioner and defogger should all be tested for efficiency.

    HIGH USAGE ITEMS -- Tires, doorsills, pedals and seat belts should be
looked over closely to make sure their wear coincides with the mileage.  The
seller could be trying to hide actual wear and tear if these items do not
comply.

    BODY -- Ripples in the panel, differences in paint color, sheen or
textures are all signs of a car that has been in an accident and poorly
repaired.  More extensive damage will be evident in the body, such as uneven
seems or welds under the hood or trunk.

    MAINTENANCE RECEIPTS & DOCUMENTS -- A technician can evaluate the history
of the vehicle by reading receipts and documents.  A car owner who has kept an
accurate recording of all maintenance has most likely done a good job of
caring for their vehicle.  Late model cars may also have some of the original
manufacturer's warranty remaining.

    Consumers can access the "Top 10 tips on finding an honest repair shop" by
visiting NAPA online at http://www.NAPAAUTOPARTS.com .  To find the closest repair
shop with ASE-certified technicians and a national warranty program, call
1-800-LET-NAPA.  There are 9,300 independently owned NAPA AutoCare Centers
around the country that motorists can count on for honest car repair.