What should I check before buying a used automatic car?

<p><strong>Confirm the exact transmission type, check documented maintenance and evaluate smooth engagement, shifting and behaviour when cold and warm.</strong></p><h2>Why this matters</h2><p>“Automatic” covers torque-converter, dual-clutch and continuously variable systems with different service requirements. Delayed engagement into drive, hard shifts or judder may indicate faults that are expensive to diagnose. Some defects only appear at operating temperature, so a two-minute trip around the block is inadequate.</p><h2>What to do in practice</h2><p>Ask for transmission oil-change records where required, test low-speed manoeuvres and hill starts safely and check for fluid leaks. Verify that dashboard warnings are absent. If the model has a known specialist servicing requirement, obtain a written quote before purchase.</p><h2>Important distinction</h2><p>A gearbox can feel normal during one drive and still have hidden defects; independent inspection reduces but does not eliminate risk.</p>