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•
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Inspect tires for remaining tread and any
signs of sidewall damage, plugs, and uneven wear. |
|
•
|
Note how easy the clamshell hood is to operate.
It should release and lift without binding. |
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•
|
Look for missing fasteners or loose cables
in the engine compartment. |
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•
|
Look closely for any signs of oil leakage.
Take a mirror and check the rear of the intake manifold
for leaks that are difficult to see from above. |
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•
|
Inspect the plug wires for signs of cracking
or damage. |
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•
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Look at all the many hoses for cracking
or leakage. |
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•
|
Look at the serpentine belt for signs of
fraying. |
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•
|
Check the battery terminals for corrosion. |
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•
|
Remove the air filter cover and check the
air filter condition. |
|
•
|
Check the entire front end again for signs
of physical damage and repairs. |
|
•
|
Check the coolant tank to see that it has
sufficient coolant according to the marking. |
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•
|
Pull the dipstick and check the oil. If
it has had a brand new oil change, be especially vigilant.
Also, be careful if the oil viscosity feels "stiff".
It is a common practice to put oil additives in the crankcase
to hide excessive oil usage. |
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•
|
Press the hatch release on the edge of
the driver's door and the hatch should release on a hatchback
model. Reseat the hatch and perform the same test using
the yellow button in the glove box. If you hear a solenoid
sound but the hatch does not release, there may be misalignment
of the retainer. No activity indicates a blown fuse of
bad release solenoid. |
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•
|
Check the security system. Lower the power
windows; exit the car locking them with the power-locking
switch as you do so. With the door lock key at the ready,
reach into the vehicle and open the door. The alarm should
sound (horn should pulse) and this will continue until
you unlock the door using the key. |
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•
|
Replace the air filter cover and ask the
owner/dealer to start the engine while you watch. |
