Car buying guide
• Used car buying guide
• How to choose the right car
• Used car reviews
• Where to look for a car
• How to check car history
• What to look for in a used car:
- Illustrated checklist
- How to check the engine
- Transmission check
- Accidents check
- Mileage check
- Print used car checklist
• Links to DMV sites
• Auto insurance tips
• Extended warranty questions
Car maintenance guide:
• Car troubleshooting
• Check Engine light
• Car Repair Manuals
• How to maintain a car
- Car body care
- Engine maintenance
- Keep your transmission alive
- Simple maintenance tips
• Car checklist before a long trip

• How to sell a car
• Illustrated auto glossary
• Car dealers across Canada
• Automotive links
• Automotive Technology news


How to check a used car prior purchase


Check used car history by the VIN number

A car history report may reveal some facts about the vehicle's past: previous accidents, rolled back odometer, failed emission test, flooding, number of owners, etc.
That's why it's always recommended to check car history records prior purchase. All you need is the vehicle's VIN number.

Illustrated used car checklist

engine oil check
You don't have to be a mechanic to spot at least some signs of potential problems when buying a used car. Before taking the car for a thorough inspection to your mechanic, have a closer look yourself. Our used car checklist with detailed illustrations what to look for will make it easier for you.

How to discover transmission problems

If abused by a previous owner, an automatic transmission may not last very long. The repair of an automatic transmission tends to be very expensive. It's important to have a used car inspected by the mechanic before buying. Learn few signs that may indicate potential problem with an automatic transmission.

How to check the engine

What you can expect from your engine depends on how well it was maintained by the previous owner. Even a low-mileage used car may develop a serious engine problem if it wasn't properly maintained. Learn few tips that may help you to discover potential engine problems

How to check car body condition

It's not recommended to buy any car that has been involved in a serious accident. Thousands of car accidents happen every day, but how many of the sellers will tell you that the car has been involved in a collision?
Learn how to spot signs of the previous accident or corrosion repair in our illustrated guide



Thinking about an extended warranty for your car? With an extended warranty you can protect yourself from unexpected repair costs, but is the extended warranty right for you? - Check our guide:

Auto Extended Warranty




Need a repair manual for your car? Subscribe for instant online access to DIY repair manual at Alldata DIY where you can find electrical diagrams, engine computer codes, technical service bulletins, specifications, locations, maintenance schedules, recommended fluids and more.