Buying a pre-owned vehicle in Montreal can offer significant savings, but hidden faults may turn a bargain into a headache. As your trusted Canadian auto broker, AutoLuxury delivers expert guidance—from selecting the right model to arranging seamless international delivery. Follow this detailed checklist to uncover any concerns before you sign the deal.
1. Review the Vehicle’s History
Ask the seller or previous owner for a complete maintenance log, accident reports and recall notices. You can obtain official records through CARFAX Canada or provincial safety archives. Verifying compliance with Transport Canada safety standards gives you confidence about the car’s past.
2. Inspect the Frame and Underbody
Montreal winters with heavy road salt accelerate corrosion. Examine wheel arches, rocker panels and the undercarriage for rust, dents or mismatched paint. Warping or uneven panel gaps often signal past collisions—frame repairs can be prohibitively expensive.
3. Check Under the Hood
Pop the hood and scout for oil stains, coolant drips, cracked hoses or corroded battery terminals. Measure fluid levels: engine oil should be light brown and transmission fluid red or pink. A tidy engine bay usually reflects careful upkeep.
4. Compare Mileage to Vehicle Age
Canadian drivers average around 20,000 km per year. Divide the odometer reading by the car’s age to spot unusually high usage. A low-year model with excessive kilometres often means accelerated wear on mechanical parts.
5. Test All Interior Electronics
Turn on the climate controls, infotainment system, power windows, wipers and dashboard indicators. Montreal’s temperature extremes can strain electrical systems—malfunctions here may affect both comfort and safety.
6. Arrange a Professional Inspection
Even after your own checks, enlist a certified mechanic to perform a full evaluation. AutoLuxury’s Montreal network can coordinate inspections to reveal hidden issues before you finalize the purchase.
Final Advice
By following these six expert steps, you’ll avoid unexpected repair bills and negotiate from a position of strength. Whether you’re buying locally or exporting Canadian vehicles abroad, AutoLuxury Canada offers tailored auto financing Canada and leasing Canada services, along with reliable car delivery from Canada to anywhere in the world.
