It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of being able to buy a used vehicle in excellent condition at an affordable price point. However, while a pre-owned car might offer the best bang for your buck, it’s not like brand new units that you can drive off the lot without worries. A-1 Auto A/C Specialist & General Auto Repair, a trusted auto mechanic in Honolulu, HI, lists some of the tasks you need to take care of after buying a used car.

Auto Mechanic’s Checklist for Used Cars

1. Make Sure All Papers Are in Order

You don’t want to get into a vehicular accident in an unregistered car or one without insurance coverage. Before you complete the transaction, verify that all of the necessary documents are available and updated.

2. Have It Checked by a Mechanic

If you were not able to get an inspection before buying the unit, you should do so immediately after. A professional auto mechanic can identify existing and potential issues the vehicle may have and fix them before they become worse and potentially more expensive.

3. Refill or Replace All Fluids

Get an oil change and have all other fluids topped off or flushed, depending on their current condition. These include the coolant, transmission and brake fluids, and the windshield washer, which should all be filled and uncontaminated.

4. Have It Detailed

While it’s impossible to bring back the scent of a brand new car, the closest you can get is probably a newly detailed vehicle. Get exterior, interior, and engine detailing done to remove all traces of the previous owner and bring back the car’s luster.

If you need an auto mechanic who can provide reliable service at reasonable prices, get in touch with A-1 Auto A/C Specialist & General Auto Repair. Conveniently located in the heart of Honolulu, their certified, fully insured team specializes in transmission and brake repairs, oil changes, car tune-up services, and auto air conditioning. Call (808) 836-2939 today to set up an appointment for a free estimate, and visit their website for more information on their services.