Timing belt

Does the car have a timing belt? Find out when it needs to be replaced. If you buy a car with around 60.000 miles on the odometer, then it may need a new timing belt. Not only is replacing a timing belt an expensive piece of maintenance, if the belt snaps, the engine will (with our luck) smash to pieces internally. It will cost you a lot of money if this happens, because all the valves will have to be replaced. That is why you always have to inform yourself about the mileage and maintenance schedule for the belt replacement.

When you are shopping for a car with a high mileage, the engine is probably due for its second or third timing belt. But also cars with a much lower mileage could very well need a new belt, because of the belts maximum lifespan or car brand. There are examples of brands with specific models that need a new timing belt after just 40.000 miles. For the exact mileage whereupon the belt needs to be replaced it is best that you contact the brand dealer. The dealer can exactly inform you after how many months or miles the timing belt needs to be changed.

Pre-delivery inspection

If the dealer gives a pre-delivery inspection, ask if this is the nearest scheduled service or a visual inspection with only the most necessary maintenance. If you want to know if the dealer held up his end of the deal, you can check for example the oil filter. When a car gets its oil changed you should get a new oil filter. The oil filter can be found under the engine and when used it is dirty. If it was changed recently it is still shiny and gives you a good indication of the dealer and his word. Often you get a new MOT, which asserts that the car is roadworthy and meets the emission standards. With this test you can legally drive for another year. In the real world you have a good chance that, especially with the older cars, you have to change a drive shaft, exhaust pipe or engine part. The extent of the repairs depends largely on the cars age and mileage. To limit the spending of extra money after the purchase, you can do two things. Buy a car at a used car dealership with a minimum of warranty, but for the least amount of money. You will need some technical experience, but when your car needs unexpected repairs, you saved money during the purchase, which you can use for maintenance. The second option is the brand dealer. Most brand dealers offer extended warranties for one or two years. Their cars are more expensive, but your unexpected repairs are covered. Provided that these repairs are reported within the warranty period.

Conclusion

When you buy a car that is in a good technical condition, it saves you a lot of money in the near future. Replacing for example the timing belt is an expensive part of maintenance. Make sure that all the necessary repairs and maintenance are done as part of the pre-delivery inspection by the dealer.