When working in the automotive industry, you see quite a lot of interesting things. The one thing that surprises me the most is when people purchase a car online W I T H O U T looking at it in person…seriously?! How do you know if the car even works? People can make pictures and videos look amazing online these days. If you are thinking about another car purchase, give your trusted mechanic a call and have he/she come look at it with you. It will be worth the money!

New Car Purchase? Have Your Mechanic Check These First

O.k, now who would buy this car below?

purchase car

I probably would if I liked Studebaker’s. Now, would you buy the same car if you knew the underside looked like this?

purchase rust car

purchase rust car

Absolutely NOT!

This is the same car that a customer purchased online, without viewing the car in person, trusting the online seller. It is really hard to trust online sellers these days, especially on sites like Craigslist and eBay.  Schedule a visit to view the car, call up your mechanic and have them check all of these items below:

  1. The most important thing you need to remember. CHECK UNDERNEATH THE CAR! Rust can form anywhere but if the car was not stored well or was not taken care of, it will show a lot of rust on the underside of the car; especially around the quarter panels and brakes. You DO NOT want to purchase a rusted car. Even if you were thinking of restoring it, the amount of money and time it would take to work on a rusted car is far worse. A tiny bit of surface rust isn’t the end of the world, but just remember, rust only gets worse!
  2. Check the fluids. Whoever is selling the car should have checked the fluids before selling it. However, if you purchase a car online without looking at it, how would you ever know? Make sure you check the transmission fluid , motor oil , power steering (if it has it), coolant , brake fluid , and fuel tank . Look underneath to see if you notice any leaks from the compartments just mentioned. If any of those fluids are the wrong color… huge warning sign!
  3. Check the A/C , heater, all the lights, and radio if the car has these items. The last thing you’ll want to deal with after spending all that money is a blown fuse.
  4. Check the tire pressure before test driving it. A good indication of whether they took care of the car or not.
  5. Test drive and check the driveability. This is where a good mechanic will come in handy. You want to make sure the car runs and feels good. Take it through stop lights, tight corners, traffic, and on the highway to open it up. If you feel any kind of vibration or the car wants to pull left and right, or if you hear any funky noises, all indications that something is wrong. Usually always fixable, but how much money do you want to put in a car you just bought?

See why it is important to check the car out in person and even more helpful if you bring a trusted mechanic with you? Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and really dig into the car. If a salesperson doesn’t want to show you something, that probably means something is broken…

If you are in the market for a car and need someone to look at it, Horsepower Enterprises, LLC. has years of experience with old and new cars. They can send a mechanic to look at any car in any location throughout the US.

Share

You might also like

By Kurt Brown 18 Apr, 2024
Shielding Your Financial Well-being in the Wake of an Auto Accident
By Robin Etchison 26 Feb, 2024
Decoding the Meaning: 'You Can Eat Off That Engine' For those entrenched in the exuberant world of classic cars, few phrases evoke as vivid a picture as "You can eat off that engine." It's not merely about a pristine shine; it's a testament to an ethos, a culture, and a craftsmanship revered within the domain of vintage automobiles. This article is a deep dive into the significance of this saying, unwrapping the layers of meaning that define it and examining how it’s much more than just a colloquial praise. The Essence of Pristine Engine Bays To the uninitiated, the remark might sound bizarre and somewhat excessive. After all, engines are functional, not culinary. However, to enthusiasts, the invite to dine on a classic car's engine represents so much more than a display of hygiene. It signifies a level of immaculacy that can often rival a surgeon's operating table. The prestigious designation 'parade clean,' a step above show-quality cleaning standards, is a befitting label for such an engine. It is prepared with microscopic precision and gravitational detail, telling a story of its own – that of the car’s history, care, and exclusive pride. The admiration for a spotless engine bay is a nod to the vehicle's history, painting a picture of the care and precision that may have been part of its manufacturing process. It also reflects the owner's commitment to preservation, signaling to the onlooker that every aspect of this vintage machine, seen and unseen, is revered and well-maintained. Metaphor to Machine The suggestive act of dining off an engine involves recognising the diligence involved in its maintenance. The precision exhibited in creating the engine and its components, the devotion to maintaining and restoring it, and the systematic approach to its upkeep mirrors that of a chef orchestrating a fine culinary display. It serves as an avenue for enthusiasts to draw a parallel between culinary art and the meticulous care that classic car engines receive, reinforcing the idea that these machines are works of art. An Artisan's Playground Restoration and maintenance of classic car engines are deeply rooted in respect for heritage and the appreciation of engineering excellence. This commitment to preservation often sees enthusiasts investing hundreds—if not thousands—of hours into refurbishing an engine to its former glory. Every nut and bolt is scrutinized, every surface polished, every component tested and retested to ensure that the engine doesn’t just look good but carries the same spirit and power it did when it left the production line. The process is arduous and requires mechanical expertise, patience, and a genuine love for the craft. And just as an artist wouldn't allow a single stroke to mar the perfection of his painting, so does an automotive enthusiast strive to ensure each engine component reflects the same standard of excellence. Reflecting in Practicality: Maintaining a Classic’s Engine When preservation meets practicality, the advice on engine maintenance is consistent and clear—cleanliness is key. Dirt, grime, or dust may seem utterly harmless initially, but when infiltrating the inner sanctum of a classic car’s engine, they can cause catastrophic effects over time. Corrosion and contamination can lead to mechanical failures, which in turn can result in extensive and expensive damages that require spares and could potentially devalue the vehicle. The rigorous engine cleaning and maintenance process is a religious practice that keeps the engines not just operable but, more importantly, looking as good as the day they were assembled. And in the world of vintage vehicles, appearances carry weight—proportionally on the scale of pride and price alike. The Restoration Ritual For devotees who have embarked on the magnificent yet daunting journey of restoring a classic, the engine serves as the heart and soul of the project. It is often the first component to receive attention, not only due to its mechanical centrality but also the symbolic importance it holds. Restorers invest not only effort but a part of themselves in the rebirth of these vintage engines. The transformation from a worn, historical artifact to a pristine piece on display reflects the passage of time, the evolution of technology, and the timeless beauty of engineering. It’s akin to the story of a phoenix rising from the ashes, only in this case, it's an engine, polished and prepped, ready to sing once more on the open road. Engaging the Community The well-known saying ignites conversations within the automotive community, sharing stories of engine restorations, tips on maintaining the perfect shine, and the personal fulfillment of owning and presenting an immaculate classic car. Dialogue around this phrase opens the floor for personal testimonials, expertise exchange, and a celebration of craftsmanship. Classic car shows offer a platform for these discussions, with enthusiasts often lingering around engines that glisten like mirrors, eager to discuss the labor of love that went into their preservation. The community is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of history, friendship, and shared passion. Shining in Personalization The remark touches on the personalization and individuality that vintage car owners strive for. A car that has been meticulously cared for and tailored to the owner's desired specifications reflects the character and standards of the individual and stands as a unique piece of automotive heritage. In this case, the engine stands as a centrepiece, a showpiece, and a testament to the owner's narrative and their tribute to the vehicle's legacy. Conclusion The essence of the saying transcends its literal explanation, embodying respect, precision, history, and pride within the automotive world. It paints a picture of owners and enthusiasts who have taken an oath to preserve the tapestry of the past, one gleaming engine at a time. Hence, for the aficionados, the saying "You can eat off that engine" is more than a compliment; it’s a way of life, a marker of values, and a standard that embodies the artistry found in the veins of classic cars and the hearts of those who love them. Mechanics on Wheelz is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap for enthusiasts seeking to embody the mantra of maintaining an engine so pristine it gleams. With a team of skilled professionals who come directly to you, Mechanics on Wheelz offers the convenience and expertise to customize and restore your cherished classic cars to your exact specifications. Whether it's returning a vehicle to its original splendor or infusing it with a modern twist, their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures that your automotive dreams become a reality. In the classic car restoration world, Mechanics on Wheelz stands out as a mobile service that brings passion, precision, and personalization to your driveway. #VintageVibes,#vintagecarcollector, #antiqueauto, #ClassicCars, #historicwheels,#autoheritage #oldschoolcool #RetroRides #TimelessMotors, collectiblecars,#mobilemechanic
By Robin Etchison 21 Feb, 2024
Top Most Common Car Problems and Issues Every Car Owner Should Be Aware Of!
Show More

Book a Service Today

Share by: