Inspect the car in daylight. Faults like scratches, dents, rust and shabby interior are more difficult to see in shade or darkness. A waxed and shiny car is made more impressive by overhead lighting that's in a garage for example. This effect may distract from more serious damage.

2torial #0523: Learn2 Check Out a Used Car (Continued) Check the underside and tires Look under the car up and down its entire length. Any fluids dripping to the street? Look around the area for dark patches on the ground.   Study the fluids. Oil or manual transmission fluid is black, while automatic transmission and power steering fluid is red.   Antifreeze or coolant are thin, watery liquids, usually green but sometimes red.   Gas and water are clear and mostly colorless. It's not unusual for a used car to leak a bit of oil from the engine block or some water after running the air conditioner, but have your mechanic examine the source of any leaks.   Take a look at the tires--including the spare, which is often the most worn. A tread that's uneven to one side is a sign of poor alignment or balance. A lack of tread on the outside or inside of the tire usually means over or underinflation. Step 3