For those seeking a cheap-yet-reliable set of wheels, the condition of the exterior of a car may not be as important as its mechanical condition. However, for those who want to restore a classic, the condition of the exterior may be the most important factor in buying a car, as exterior parts for older cars are becoming increasingly harder to find.
Tires
The condition of the tires is important for the amount of life you will get out of them, but also because certain wear can tell you about the condition of the car’s suspension system. Look at the tires closely; excessive wear and balding on just one side of the tread indicates a problem with the alignment. However, not all abnormal tire wear may indicate problems with the suspension. Excessive wear on both sides of the tread can mean prolonged under-inflation of the tires; excessive wear down the middle of the tread can indicate prolonged over-inflation. The best way to be sure is to have the alignment checked if you notice any abnormal wear in the tires; some shops will do this as a courtesy, while others will charge you a nominal fee that will be deducted from the price of a re-alignment if you decide to have it done there.
Body
When it comes to inspecting the body of the car, your needs will depend heavily on your intentions for the car. If you are looking primarily for a car that is mechanically sound, body damage might not detract from a car that runs well, and may even help you get it for a better price. However, if you are looking for a classic to restore, a sound body may be more important to you. Other than the obvious exterior damage, such as dents and rust, look for subtle ripples or curves that don’t flow with the lines of the car; this may indicate damage that has been repaired in the past. If are looking for a car that does not need to be repainted, be sure to inspect the paint thoroughly, looking for signs of a cheap paint job (cracking, peeling, fading, and the rough finish known as “orange peel”).
Rust: The Car Cancer
When it comes to the structural integrity of a car, rust is perhaps the most serious issue. Rust can work from the inside out, coming as a complete surprise; to avoid being disappointed with a car that you thought was structurally sound, be sure to closely inspect it for rust. Look for bubbling in the paint, a sign that the metal underneath is rusting. Also check the undercarriage. Rubberized undercoating can protect a car from the corroding effects of road salt and weather, but it can also temporarily disguise a case of cancer, so be suspicious of undercoating that looks too fresh.