Buying a used car can be a smart way to save money, but it also comes with risks. You’re stepping into the unknown – someone else’s driving history, maintenance habits, and potentially hidden problems. So, how can you protect yourself and make sure you’re not buying a lemon? One of the most effective tools in your used car inspection arsenal is a scanner. But should I use a scanner when looking at a used car? The short answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why.
Using a scanner, also known as an OBD-II scanner, is like having a peek under the hood without getting your hands greasy. It’s a simple device that plugs into your car’s diagnostic port and reads trouble codes stored by the car’s computer. These codes can reveal a wealth of information about the car’s health, flagging potential issues that might not be obvious during a visual inspection or even a test drive.
Why Using a Scanner is a Smart Move
Save Time and Money: Imagine spending hours at a dealership or with a private seller, test driving a car, and getting your hopes up, only to find out later from a mechanic that it has serious underlying problems. A quick scan can immediately reveal red flags, saving you time and the potential cost of a pre-purchase inspection on a vehicle with obvious issues. As one experienced used car buyer put it, “It’s a disqualifier, really. It’s so you don’t waste time with the car, taking it to a mechanic, etc. when you wouldn’t have had to had you done the scan check.”
Uncover Hidden Issues: Some sellers might not be upfront about existing problems, or they might genuinely be unaware of them. Warning lights can be reset, but trouble codes often remain stored in the computer’s memory. A scanner can expose these hidden issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to more significant engine or transmission problems, giving you a clearer picture of the car’s true condition.
Negotiate with Confidence: Knowledge is power. If the scanner reveals codes, you’re armed with concrete evidence of potential problems. This gives you leverage in negotiations. You can ask the seller to address the issues, lower the price to compensate for future repairs, or simply walk away from a potentially problematic vehicle.
What Can a Scanner Detect?
A scanner reads Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to various systems, including:
- Engine: Misfires, fuel system issues, sensor problems, and more.
- Transmission: Shifting problems, solenoid issues, and other transmission malfunctions.
- Emissions System: Catalytic converter efficiency, oxygen sensor issues, and problems that could lead to failing an emissions test.
While a scanner isn’t a magic bullet and can’t diagnose every single problem, it’s an invaluable tool for identifying potential areas of concern.
When Should You Use a Scanner?
Ideally, you should use a scanner before you get too invested in a used car. Bring a scanner with you when you first go to look at a vehicle. Politely ask the seller if you can quickly plug it in. A seller with nothing to hide will likely agree.
What if the Seller Refuses a Scan?
This is a major red flag. As the original source wisely notes, “anyone who won’t let you… scan it is selling you a piece of junk.” A refusal to allow a scan suggests the seller is hiding something, and it’s best to walk away. As the saying goes, “You pull the scanner out you just saved yourself a bunch of time, if just seeing you with a scanner makes them scared, you know you don’t want to buy that car.”
Don’t Forget the Test Drive
While a scanner is crucial, it’s just one part of a thorough used car inspection. Always conduct a comprehensive test drive. Pay attention to how the car drives at both low and high speeds. “Many cars seem fine a low speed but only when you get it up to highway speeds can you feel or hear certain kinds of problems. Not that I know what the specific problems are, but at speed you can feel things like wobbly bearings and so forth.” Test the air conditioning, brakes, steering, and listen for any unusual noises.
Conclusion: Scan First, Drive Smart
Using a scanner when looking at a used car is a smart, proactive step that can save you from costly mistakes. It’s a quick and easy way to gain valuable insights into a vehicle’s condition and make an informed decision. Combine a scanner check with a thorough test drive and, when in doubt, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, and you’ll significantly increase your chances of driving away in a reliable used car. So, next time you’re in the market for a used vehicle, remember to ask yourself: should I use a scanner when looking at a used car? The answer is a definite yes.
