OK, so the paint is nice and shiny, the interior smells like pine, the tires are clean and glistening and engine doesn’t knock or wheeze but what’s the real cost of that used car you’re looking at? The real cost of a used car isn’t just the cash you fork over to the seller. It’s more than the additional cost of taxes and licensing. The true cost of a used car includes all the repairs you’ll do in the months and, hopefully, years ahead, as well as the level of frustration you may experience in the process.

Denny Norton, at Performance Unlimited, 5415 Austin Court, Ringwood, understands the potential pratfalls of purchasing a used car. That’s why, along with providing superior auto repair and maintenance services, he also offers a used-car checkup to help used-car buyers to know what they’re getting into beyond the Simonized finish of the vehicle.

“While there are some folks out there selling used cars who will try to hide issues that will cause trouble later, even with a reputable seller, it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you buy,” Norton said. “While we don’t have a crystal ball to see into the car’s future, we can provide buyers with a solid understanding of a vehicle’s current condition.”

Norton said Performance Unlimited will provide a bumper-to-bumper, inside-and-out checkup of a used vehicle for only $43. The potential buyer will receive a full report on everything from suspension and steering to engine and transmission. Amor All on the tires will make them shine but will not add tread life to a tire that only has another three-of-four-thousand miles left in it.

“We take a lot of the guesswork out of buying a used car,” Norton said. “We also let you know if the car was well maintained. I guess you could say we know the difference between a peach and a lemon.”

For more information about Performance Unlimited’s Used Car Checkup, or any of its other auto repair and maintenance services, visit www.4performanceunlimited.comor call 815-728-0343.