{"id":13312,"date":"2021-06-22T15:31:57","date_gmt":"2021-06-22T07:31:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.carro.sg\/?p=13312"},"modified":"2025-11-18T18:53:46","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T10:53:46","slug":"6-things-to-look-out-for-in-an-engine-when-buying-a-used-car","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/carro.co\/sg\/blog\/6-things-to-look-out-for-in-an-engine-when-buying-a-used-car\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Things To Look Out For In An Engine"},"content":{"rendered":"\"\"As you may very well know, the engine is a crucial part of the car. Any damage to it can end up costing more than the car\u2019s worth. Especially when buying used cars, inspecting the engine is important to understanding the car\u2019s condition. So, here are 6 things to look out for in an engine when buying a used car.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

1. Start the car\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n \"\"Does the car start on the first try? Did it take a while for the engine to start? If the engine sputtered a bit before starting or took multiple tries to turn on, there might be issues with the ignition or engine.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nSo if this does happen, be sure to get it checked with a mechanic to see the extent of the damage.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019re able to do so, another good way to check the engine is to start the car cold, meaning that the car\u2019s engine is colder than its normal operating temperature when you start it. Starting the car cold can reveal a lot of hidden issues the car may have.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nWatch out for any weird smells or noises if you cold start the car. If there are, you may be better off looking for another used vehicle to buy. <\/span>\r\n

2. Burnt smell<\/h2>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019re smelling burnt oil, your engine might be leaking oil. This is usually caused by wear and tear in the rings and cylinders, which causes more gas to enter the crankcase. The pressure inside then increases, resulting in oil being pushed out through various seals, gaskets, including the PCV system.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis means that the engine isn\u2019t in good condition and likely needs fixing, so be sure to note down any burnt oil smells. <\/span>\r\n

3. Leaks<\/h2>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nWhile smell is one way to check for leaks, it\u2019s not always a surefire way to spot them. One way is to check under the hood for any oil stains, but they\u2019re not always visible this way. So be sure to check underneath the car and check the lower part of the engine and transmission.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf there\u2019s any discolouration or wetness, it\u2019s likely there\u2019s some oil leakage. <\/span>\r\n

4. Radiator<\/h2>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nThe radiator is another thing you want to check when inspecting the engine.<\/span>\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for any puddles that have formed under your parked car. A green or orange liquid may indicate a coolant leak in the radiator system, but do note that the air conditioning unit condenses water droplets, which is completely normal.\r\n\r\nCheck the radiator for coolant leaks by feeling the underside of the radiator and see if there are any whitish deposits or rust-coloured stains.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis may be caused by a damaged radiator, which simply requires a new radiator. However, a cracked radiator can also be indicative of other more serious issues, so be careful inspecting the car.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nHonestly, the best option is to just find another used car if the radiator is compromised, or you may have to pay a heavy price to get the system fixed. <\/span>\r\n

5. Performance mods<\/h2>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nPerformance mods are any modifications made to the car in an attempt to improve vehicle performance. However, if they\u2019re done wrong, it can end up leading to many issues. Therefore, it\u2019s important to ask the previous owner or dealer if the car has had any performance mods added.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIf they have been added, be sure to consult a mechanic if they\u2019ve been installed and run properly. <\/span>\r\n

6. Engine noise<\/h2>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nThe last thing to look out for is engine noise. When you start the engine, make note of any rattling or clunking?\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nHere are some common engine noises to look out for:\u00a0<\/span>\r\n