Educated used-car buyers know it's important to test-drive a vehicle before making a purchase, as well as to have it thoroughly inspected by a professional mechanic. Edmunds.com provides guidance on what to look for when buying a used car, and most auto manufacturers offer online certified pre-owned vehicle inspection checklists.
But rarely does a used-car shopper put the audio system through its paces during a test-drive — other than maybe just making sure it turns on. And a buyer may typically turn off the radio in order to listen for unusual noises from the engine or drivetrain.
Yet an in-car entertainment system may be your constant companion while you're behind the wheel. Before you buy, you'll likely check that the seats are comfortable, the pedal positions are a good fit and the controls all work. So it's only prudent to take the audio system for a spin, too.
By taking a few minutes to pay attention to the stereo system, you can get an idea of the performance and condition of the audio components — and possibly avoid disappointment and costly repairs down the road. The testing is easy and requires no special tools other than your eyes and ears.
Do a Visual Inspection
While checking out the exterior of a vehicle, pay attention to the radio antenna. Is it broken, missing or barely hanging on? If the car has a power antenna, does it work? Or is it permanently retracted or extended?
While checking out the interior, make sure the radio, speakers and speaker grilles are in place. Check to see whether these items are poorly installed and if any obvious parts are missing.
It's quite common for someone to remove an aftermarket sound system when trading in or selling a vehicle. And even if the original owner doesn't do so, a dealership will often take out aftermarket electronics, according to several dealers we spoke with. Dealers prefer a factory appearance for their used-car inventory. They also don't want to tempt thieves by leaving aftermarket electronic equipment on the lot after hours.
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