You do not need to be a mechanic to avoid the worst used cars. Bring a torch, a magnet and a friend.

**Outside (5 minutes).** Walk around in daylight. Panel gaps should be even; a wider gap on one side usually means a repaired collision. Run the magnet along the lower doors and wheel arches: it will not stick to filler. Check that all four tyres are the same brand and have even wear. Uneven wear on one side means alignment or suspension problems.

**Under the bonnet (5 minutes).** Cold engine only. Pull the oil dipstick: milky oil means coolant contamination. Look for fresh sealant around the valve cover or timing cover. Check that the bolts on the wings and bonnet still have factory paint on them; shiny bolts have been turned.

**Inside (5 minutes).** Lift the carpet in the boot and under the front seats. Rust, mud or a damp smell means flood damage. Turn the key without starting: every warning light should come on, then go off. A missing check-engine bulb is a classic trick.

**Test drive (5 minutes).** Drive with the radio off. Listen for clunks over bumps, feel for pulling under braking, and make sure the automatic gearbox shifts without hesitation between 2nd and 3rd.

If anything feels off, walk away or book a paid inspection. A 50,000 won inspection is cheaper than a 2 million won gearbox.