Accelerate hard on a clear road – throttle response should be quick and sure. Back off and hit the gas again – there should be no “flat spots,” hesitation or black smoke emissions. Does the engine “ping” under a load (accelerating, passing, going up a steep hill)? Maybe it simply needs higher octane gas. Or maybe it’s a mechanical problem. Also, if the engine pings the knock sensor could be defective, or the ignition timing may too advanced. Or, a buildup of carbon deposits inside the combustion chambers might be causing preignition or detonation. Listen for any unusual clanking or roaring noises coming from the engine when accelerating and when driving at steady highway speeds. Jot down any such noises in your notebook and point them out to your mechanic.

Note the gauges and warning lights. Watch the coolant temperature gauge while driving in stop and go traffic and note whether the car is running too hot. Low oil pressure or above-normal coolant temperature could indicate serious (and expensive) problems. An alternator light could be something simple like a loose alternator belt, or it could indicate a major electrical repair or replacement like the alternator or battery.

Pull over somewhere safe and stop. Turn the engine off, then restart it and note how well it starts when hot. Listen for any intermittent noises that you might have missed when the engine was cold. Check for leaks again. If the engine makes unusual noises, be prepared for problems. Insist that the seller has it tuned up or whatever it takes to ged rid of the noise(s). If a tune-up is all it truly needs, he shouldn’t mind doing it to sell the car.

Tip: Ask your mechanic if the automatic transmission in the car you’re having him check out is a basically sound design or a loser. Automatic transmissions are expensive to repair. You’re better off looking at another car than buying someone else’s transmission headache.

Winnipeg Used Cars

http://winnipegusedcarsinfo.edmontonpassengervan.com/

Derrick Dodge

Canadian Fleet

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