Buffalo Used Car Buyer Checklist: Avoid Rust & Winter Problems
Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Buffalo, New York, or if you’ve recently moved to the area, there’s plenty to see and do in this thriving city. However, there’s one thing that both locals and visitors can agree about when it comes to Buffalo. Our local weather conditions can be both extreme and unpredictable at times, resulting in subzero winter temperatures, heavy snowfall totals, and gale-force winds. Collectively, these extreme types of weather phenomena can have a major impact on the condition of vehicles on the road here in Buffalo.
Considering all that cars in Buffalo are exposed to, it’s essential to exercise caution and take your time when searching for your next used car. Our team at Basil Family Dealerships has assembled this handy guide that gives you some expert tips and tricks that will be helpful as you start your search for a used car in Buffalo, NY. You’ll discover what to look for, what to avoid, and how to shop like a pro!
Tip #1 – Avoid Rust & Corrosion Problems
An unfortunate reality that comes from driving in extreme climates like here in Buffalo, rust and corrosion can have a nasty impact on the condition of a used car. Routine exposure to salt, road grime, and precipitation creates the potential for corrosion to form on the exterior body panels of a vehicle along with its undercarriage. This rust is both ugly in appearance and can result in reduced structural integrity on the vehicle’s frame. Make sure to have a professional thoroughly inspect the exterior and chassis of the vehicle you’re interested in, checking for things like mismatched paint, body filler, and other hidden damage caused by corrosion or rust. Finally, consider adding rustproofing in the form of a specialized coating to protect your investment for the long haul.
Tip #2 – Tires & Traction
As the only thing standing between you and the road surface, your tires play a critical role in how your vehicle handles, the type of gas mileage you get, and contribute to your safety as well. When inspecting a used car, be sure to pay careful attention to the condition of the tires. This includes checking things like the depth of the tread, if all four are matched, how evenly the tires have worn, and ensuring that they are free of any damage. For maximum confidence and peace of mind, consider installing a set of dedicated winter tires during the colder months of the year. These specialized types of tires use unique rubber compounds that resist hardening when exposed to freezing temperatures, retaining their ability to grip the road surface.
Tip #3 – Battery Health
Responsible for supplying electrical power for everything from the starter to the seat adjustments of your vehicle, the battery plays a critical role. When inspecting a used car, make sure to check the health of the battery to ensure that it’s ready for a cold Buffalo winter. After all, cold temperatures can push a vehicle’s battery to the point of failure if it’s not in good condition. Symptoms like slow cranking, dim headlights, and non-functioning electronics can all be signs of a dead or dying battery. Listed on the top or side of the battery is where you’ll find a date code, indicating the month and year the battery was manufactured. Additionally, our team at Basil Family Dealerships can test your battery using specialized diagnostic equipment and install a new battery if necessary.
Tip #4 – Brake Performance & Health
Another essential component that’s responsible for keeping you safe on the road, the brake system of a used car must be in good health in order to respond to a dangerous situation. When you test drive a used car, make sure you take the time to notice if the brake system works as it should. Things like vibrations while braking, feeling the vehicle pull to either side, or long stopping distances are signs that brake work is needed. Brake pads, brake rotors, and brake fluid should be inspected and replaced (if necessary) by a factory-trained technician to ensure your safety. Proper brake maintenance is a great way to protect your investment for the long haul while adding peace of mind at the same time.
Tip #5 – Choose the Right Type of Vehicle
While it may seem obvious, it’s important to select the right type of vehicle that’s ready for the unique demands of driving during the winter months in Buffalo. Features like all-wheel drive, raised ground clearance, and capable performance are each advantages that come in handy when driving in deep snow or in icy climates. Naturally, this gives SUVs, pickup trucks, and wagons a natural advantage here in Buffalo. That’s not to say you should avoid a sedan, hybrid, or coupe! Just make sure you prepare properly for the conditions, using things like snow tires and proper vehicle care as we’ve covered above. Perhaps consider a convertible or sports car in the warmer months, as the conditions allow. Nobody likes being stranded in a snowbank!