If you are shopping for a pre-owned vehicle to handle the logging roads and daily commute
down Highway 19, knowing exactly what to inspect can save you from a massive financial
headache. While a truck might look tough in online photos, the real test happens in person.

Drawing on expert advice from automotive mechanics and industry reviewers, here are the top
five things you must check before buying a used vehicle in Port Hardy.

1. The Exterior & Stance

A vehicle might look shiny, but you need to inspect it in the daylight. Look for uneven gaps
between body panels or slight variations in paint colour—these are telltale signs of previous
bodywork or accident repairs. Don't forget to check the tires. Ensure they have deep tread and
that the wear is even across the tire; uneven wear often points to alignment or suspension
issues caused by hitting local potholes.

2. Under the Hood (and Under the Car)

You don’t need to be a mechanic to spot basic red flags. Pop the hood and look for excessive
corrosion around the battery terminals, loose belts, or the smell of burnt oil. Take a peek
underneath the vehicle where it was parked. A few drips of water from the AC is normal on a hot
summer day, but dark, greasy stains on the pavement suggest active fluid leaks.

3. The Interior & Electronics Test

When you sit in the driver's seat, the wear and tear on the steering wheel and pedals should
match the odometer reading. Pay attention to any strong, musty odors, which could indicate
hidden water damage from heavy BC rainstorms. Take a few minutes to test every single button:
roll all the windows up and down, blast the AC and heater, and check the infotainment system
and backup camera.

4. The Test Drive (Listen and Feel)

The test drive isn't just about acceleration on Highway 19. Before you hit the road, turn off the
radio. Listen carefully for clunks, rattles, or squeaks when driving over rough pavement. Test the
brakes at different speeds—the car should stop in a straight line without pulling to one side, and
the brake pedal shouldn't vibrate or shudder. If it's an automatic, the transmission should shift
gears smoothly without hesitation.

5. Vehicle History and Paperwork

Never buy a used car without seeing its history. Ask for a complete CARFAX report and any
available maintenance records to ensure the odometer reading is accurate and there are no
hidden accidents or liens.

Skip the Stress at Applewood Ford Port Hardy

Checking all these boxes can be exhausting, especially if you are buying privately. At
Applewood Ford Port Hardy, we do the heavy lifting for you through The All Good Experience.

• Meticulous Inspections: Every used car on our lot has already undergone a rigorous
  mechanical and safety inspection by our certified technicians.
• Our Best Price Upfront: No haggling necessary. We use real-time market data to price
  our vehicles fairly.
• No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you pay. We won’t tack on surprise admin charges or last-minute fine-print add-ons.
• No Hassle Exchange: Drive it home and realize it’s not for you? Our exchange policy
  has you covered.

Browse our fully inspected pre-owned inventory online, or visit us on Market St to
take a stress-free test drive today