Avoid A Lemon Tips:

What to carry with you to the vehicle: Don't be afraid of opening doors, pushing buttons, pulling on seat belts. You've only got one chance to make sure everything works!

• Digital Camera:Photograph everything from the inside out. Once you get passed the initial excitement, review these pictures on your home computer to spot the imperfections you couldn't see at first glance.
• Flashlight:Look past the surface. Shine the light into all the dark areas. Look for leaks, stains, critters, etc..
• Mirror:Use this to get into places you can't fit. Under the dash, seats, wheel wells, rocker panels, front and rear bumpers.
• Pen & Paper:Make note of everything you see, mileage, rips, scratches, dents, floor mats, power options, add-ons. It is very difficult to remember everything, especially when you're looking at multiple vehicles.
• Lightweight Magnet(i.e. fridge magnet):This is a great tool to use when looking for 'bondo' or body filler. Place the magnet on areas throughout the vehicle and if it sticks...there's metal. If it falls off...there is something else.

What to ask the seller:Ask these questions before you see the vehicle. Then, ask these questions again when face to face with the seller. Don't be surprised if the answers are not the same.

• May I have the vehicle inspected by a licensed technician? If you want quickly filter out the dishonest sellers, ask if a Lemon Proof inspector can inspect the vehicle!
• Has the vehicle been in any accidents or has it been repainted?Learn the techniques to spot accident damage with our 'Spot A Lemon' workshop
• Is the vehicle in the seller's name?(Ask for ID) Always make sure that the true owner is there to write and sign any contracts. Do yourself a favour, don't misrepresent the true price of the vehicle. You may save on the taxes now but if you have to make an insurance claim later your compensation may not reflect the vehicle's true value.
• Is the vehicle emission tested or certified? If not, ask if the emission test and certification be carried out at a shop of your choice. Remember certification is based on minimum requirements. Your vehicle may still require expensive repairs shortly after purchase. Lemon Proof always makes buyers aware of the current condition of brakes and tires and estimates remaining life expectancy of these parts.
• Is there a used vehicle information package or U.V.I.P? Although seller is not obligated to show this, you can always run the Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) at your local Ministry of Transportation for only $20.00.
• Why are they selling the vehicle?This is a 50/50 chance you'll get the right answer. No matter the answer, don't take the word of the seller. They will tell you whatever they need to to make the sale. Answers you will not hear... the vehicle is a pig on gas... it keeps breaking down on me... it's due for a lot of maintenance... it needs an expensive repair... it's been hit and I no longer feel safe driving in it.
• Ask to see all, if any, maintenance and repair receipts. I tell all my clients, if there is no proof of services or repairs, they have not been done. Always allocate $1000.00 of your total budget for maintenance and repairs.

What to look for:

• Paint colour and texture, paint over-spray. Look for signs of these on headlights, bumpers, suspension parts, wheel wells.
• Alignment of body panels, or pin striping. Have they been moved or adjusted?
• Moldings missing or loose. Give them a shake, a pull, a tap. Make sure they are not glued in place.
• Do all four tires match?This is especially important on All Wheel Drive(AWD) vehicles and could lead to premature failure of key drive train components with mismatched tires.
• Does V.I.N. number match? Ownership, door & windshield.
• Look for maintenance stickers, are they up to date or past due?This can be a good indication of how well or often the vehicle has been serviced.
• Does the vehicle drive in reverse? Most people forget to test drive in reverse. Make sure you find a safe place and drive/maneuver the vehicle in reverse.
• Are there any fluid leaks under the vehicle?Park the vehicle in an area that is free of stains. When moved, make sure there is no evidence left behind.
• Are there signs of neglect under the hood? Corroded battery terminals, or obvious signs of damage or leaks.
• Check fluid colours: Familiarize yourself with engine/transmission oil, brake fluid, etc and their colours.

Special Note: If you are considering leaving a deposit on a vehicle, make sure that it is conditional on 'Lemon Proof's Approval', or 'A Mechanic's Inspection'.

Without clauses like these, you will not be entitled to a full refund of your deposit or have the choice to negotiate the final price of the vehicle.

For a better understanding and more tips like the ones above, consider taking the 'Spot A Lemon' workshop!