Buying a used car is always an exciting moment, but there are many aspects that you should consider. One of the most important points is the condition of the chassis. A defective chassis can not only impair driving safety, but also cause high repair costs. In this post, you will learn how to check the condition of the suspension before you decide to buy it.
Why is the condition of the chassis so important?
The chassis is a central element of your car. It ensures that you are safe and comfortable on the road by absorbing shocks and optimizing road holding. Poor suspension can manifest itself through uneven tire wear, poorer handling, or even unusual noises. That's why you should definitely make sure to check the condition of the suspension before you buy a used car.
Visual inspection: First impressions count
Before you start a test drive, you should do a thorough visual inspection. Take a close look at the shocks, springs, and suspension components. Is there visible damage, rust or oil leaks? Leaking shock absorbers are a clear warning signal because they can significantly impair driving stability. Springs that are broken or severely corroded also indicate poor condition.
Also pay attention to the tires: Uneven wear can indicate that the axle geometry is not correct or that the chassis is already worn.
The test drive: How to feel defects in the chassis
The test drive is a crucial step in checking the condition of the chassis. Pay attention to the following aspects while driving:
- Suspension: Is the car comfortable to drive on bumps or do you feel every bump? A good chassis absorbs shocks and ensures a smooth driving experience.
- Steering: Does the car pull left or right while driving? This could indicate problems with the axle geometry or unevenly worn tires.
- Noises: Do you hear clattering, rumbling or creaking? Such noises can come from defective shock absorbers, ball joints or other chassis components.
- Brake: Observe the behavior of the car when braking. If the vehicle pulls to the side or vibrates strongly, there could be problems with the suspension or brakes.
Professional review: Better safe than sorry
Even if you can recognize many defects yourself, you should have the car checked by a professional before you buy a used car. Service providers such as Carspector offer specialized vehicle inspections and have the necessary experience and the right equipment to find even hidden defects. They prepare detailed reports on the condition of the chassis and other important components. This way you can be sure that you are buying a technically flawless vehicle - or use possible problems as a basis for negotiation.
Common problems and their costs
If any issues are identified during the review, it's important to know what costs you can expect. Some of the most common problems include:
- Leaking shock absorbers: Depending on the model, the replacement can cost between 300 and 800 euros.
- Damaged springs: Here, the costs are usually between 200 and 500 euros per axle.
- Defective ball joints or control arms: Here, too, you have to expect to pay 150 to 400 euros.
If you check the condition of the suspension and discover damage, you can use it as a basis for negotiation to lower the purchase price.
Read now: Hidden costs when buying a used car
Conclusion: Thorough examination pays off
Checking the condition of the chassis is an essential step in assessing the safety and quality of a used car. With a thorough visual inspection, a careful test drive and, if necessary, a professional inspection, you can ensure that you are buying a reliable vehicle. Take the time to do these checks—they could save you a lot of hassle and expense later on.
If you prepare well and carefully check the condition of the chassis, nothing stands in the way of your successful used car purchase.