Used Honda Civic Texas TX
Reader’s Question:
I’m taking my son to look at some used cars around the lots here in Houston, Texas. Personally, I’m not really that good at it. I’d like to avoid looking like a fool in front of him. He’s intent on looking at some 5-year old Honda Civics. Help, anyone?
Barry
Houston, TX
Hey there, Barry. I can understand your predicament quite clearly. I’m guessing this son you are taking with you is the first-born, right? We would not want to make you look bad. We are here to rescue you from that. I can give you some advice and you can find below before you check out the used car lots in Houston, Texas. I bet there’s a lot of good, used Honda Civics out there. Remember: used and cheap does not have to be crappy.
First piece of advice (in the house): Before you leave the house with your son, make sure you have a car in mind already and have done the math. As far as the car is concerned, be sure you know what to check out. As far as math is concerned, make sure your wallet and paychecks can cover resulting expenses associated with the car. Also, be sure you’re mentally prepared to walk away from car that you like once you’re on the lot. If you’re not too convinced with what you saw, follow that gut instinct.
Second piece of advice (on the lot): On the lot, check for the obvious signs of body work done and ask about them if possible. You should also check if there signs of fluid leaks on the car. And do ask for a test drive, there’s nothing worse than to willingly buy a lemon. Check the following: overall ride, vibration on the car, engine noise, power (can it get up a hill?), acceleration from a stop, speed when it passes another vehicle, braking distance, available safety features on the car.
I hope my advice gives you points with your son, Barry.
Tags: Honda dealer, Honda Dealership, Houston Dealer, Houston Honda Car
Used Car Toyota Corolla Texas TX
Reader’s Question:
I’m looking at a 10-year old Corolla to give to my kid for his practice driving. A neighbor just wants to get the car off his hands. You know, before the big leagues. I hate to give my son a brand-new car to drive and bump around Texas. Any “ins” and “outs” on this model?
Jay
Houston, TX
Whoa! Jay, Jay, Jay. A 10-year old car, eh? A wise choice for the wallet, but you gotta ask yourself, “Are you really serious?” But hey, since you want the ins and outs, we’ll give you some. I won’t blame you if you do decide to go with this car. It’ll be cheap experience as a learner’s car in Houston.
I think these will be more of general tips. The Corolla back in ’98 had a reliable 16-valve engine on it. If your neighbor properly maintained the car, it should not give you a lot of headaches. One good thing I can point out, though, even if this car is already “aged,” accessories won’t be difficult to find and I think parts are still easy to come by. After all, it is a Toyota. There are critical points you should look for, though. If you see it parked at your neighbor’s car port, do check if the car still “stands” right. Signs of suspension abuse or faults can also be spotted that way. If it leans to a side too much, could be a coil spring or a shock problem. Look under the car, too, check for oil leaks. I am sure your neighbor will allow you to test drive it, do so. After starting, check out if the car is not blowing white smoke already, that’s engine wear (oil and water leak). And also check if the safety gear still work. Good thing with buying used cars off private individuals, I am sure you can get it dirt cheap. What are neighbors for, anyway?
If you get the cash in the future, you can try certified pre-owned cars in dealers in Texas.
Tags: Toyota Dealer
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