7 STEP ENGINE CHECK (WATCH THE VIDEO)

The 7 Step Engine Check – Loanseeker Online Car Loans

When you are buying a second-hand car, you don’t need to be a mechanic to spot a lemon. With The 7 Step Engine Check system, you will have all the info you need to spot a lemon and not take a bite.

Step 1 – Make Sure the Engine Number Matches the Rego Papers

The first tip in the 7 Step Engine Check is to check to make sure that the engine number matches what is on the rego papers. If it’s not then this needs to be cleared up with the seller. There might be a logical explanation for it or there might be something more sinister. Either way the kilometres on the taco will be different from the kilometres the engine has done.

Step 2 – Check the Oil

The Second Step in the 7 Step Engine Check is to check the oil to make sure it is free from metallic pieces and white froth. White froth may mean that the coolant has leaked from the cooling system and into the oil. This can usually only mean 1 thing – the head is cracked. “Don’t buy this car”. If there are metallic pieces in the oil this may mean that the engine is wearing excessively. Avoid at all costs.

Right   Wrong      

Step 3 – Check the Radiator & The Coolant for Signs of Oil

The radiator and coolant should be free from oil. If there are signs of oil in the coolant then this means that there is a crack in the head gasket and that it’s on the way out. You can also taste the liquid in the radiator, yes you heard right, if its sweet then a head gasket filler has been added. Don’t taste too much it’s probably not paleo.

Step 4 – Check for Oil Leaks.

As oil works its way down the Best Place to check for oil leaks is under the car. You can get a small torch to check that there are not major oil leaks coming from under the engine. If possible also check where the car is permanently parked for any oil stains on the ground. If there is only a small amount of oil and the car is older then it probably isn’t a problem. If there is a lot of oil or the car is newer then this may be cause for alarm. If you’re not sure always get it checked.

5 – Check for Fluid Leaks Under The bonnet

Make sure to check for any fluid leaks under the bonnet. The best way to do this is to take a small torch and check all the fluid reservoirs (brake fluid, power steering fluid etc.) to make sure they are free from liquid on the outside. Then follow their hoses and make sure they are free from liquid. Also check the bottom side of the bonnet is stain free. Any stain may have meant over heating previously.

Step 6 – Check for Cracked or Worn Hoses.

All hoses should be free from any cracks and they shouldn’t be worn. They should bend easily and not have splits or cracks. Melted hoses may also be a sign of overheating.

Step 7 – Check the Exhaust Smoke

Check the exhaust smoke when the car is started. If the smoke is blue then the piston rings are leaking.

If the smoke is white when the car first starts then this may mean that the head gasket is cracked.

If there is a lot of smoke when the car warms up then this means that the coils need replacing.

If you see any of these then get the car thoroughly checked by a mechanic you trust. Or just walk away, more trouble than its worth.

Step 8 – Bonus Tip – Take the Car for A Drive

This might sound like a no brainer but you need to know what to look for when you are driving it. Firstly, the car should start easily the first time and not make any crunching sounds when you turn it over. Also, if there are any screeching noises coming from the engine bay you may need to replace the belts asap. While you are driving, you shouldn’t hear any knowing coming from the rear of the car or from the wheels. This may mean that the cv joint or the ball joints are on the way out and will need replacing. The car should accelerate easily and not chug or jerk. Cars should accelerate at an even pace albeit some faster than others.

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