To inspect the vehicle and, of course, to test it, it is best to go to the seller, early during the day, and preferably at a time when the traffic is minimal. Normally, the vehicle's engine will then be cold, which will allow you to check the oil level. If it borders on the minimum, you will already have an idea of the care given by the previous owner.

To be sure, ask the seller to do the first kilometers of the test themselves. If they pull off the lot when it is not yet warmed up, if they leave their foot too long on the clutch pedal, if they drive erratically making the car roll on either side, it can be a sign that the vehicle was not taken care of properly.

• Turning on the engine: Two starter strokes should be enough to start the motor. As soon as the engine is running, check the exhaust smoke which, if bluish, indicates a serious engine problem.
• Clutch: When stationary, apply the handbrake, engage the third and slowly disengage to the limit of the stalling. If the clutch slips, its discs need to be changed. If the clutch grinds, it could also mean wear to the disc or worse, the flywheel.
• Engine: Idling should be smooth. Once the mechanics are at the right temperature, the revs must be straightforward and smooth. If not, it may indicate that the air filter and / or the spark plugs are clogged, or that the engine is very tired.
• Engine noise: Squealing or hissing sounds indicate improper tension and the risk of the belt breaking.
• Gearbox: The gears must pass without jerks or creaks. A permanent hum from the box is a sign of worn bearings or cogs.
• Steering: Turn the wheel till it locks on either side. The operation must be smooth without snapping or hard points. When maneuvering at idle, there should be no variations when turning the steering. When driving in a straight line, the steering wheel must be perfectly centered and when you let go, the vehicle must not pull to the right or to the left. When cornering, the vehicle must respond without delay to the action exerted on the steering wheel. Finally, when driving on a smooth tarmacked road, the steering wheel must not vibrate.

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