Buying a used car can be a scary experience, but it doesn’t have to be. There are some things you should be aware of before you head out to the lot so you can avoid any potential pitfalls and find your ideal ride. We’ve put together an outline of what we think is important for buyers to keep in mind, so they don’t end up with their dream car turning into a nightmare.
1) Check the Vehicle History Report
Never buy a used car before checking its vehicle history report. You will want to know if there are any odometer rollbacks on record, if there were ever major accidents reported, and other factors that could affect the vehicle’s value. If you find anything concerning in your car’s report, it might be best to look elsewhere.
It’s important that you have a good idea of the vehicle’s history before signing anything, as buying a used car can quickly turn into an expensive mistake if there are any problems hidden in its past.
You can check the vehicle history report from Carfax or another trusted provider.
2) Define Your Budget
Next, decide how much money you can spend on your car. You should set up an initial budget to know what price range to look in when visiting dealerships. Keep in mind that many times people overestimate what they want to spend, so be realistic.
Don’t forget to add other monthly expenses related to your car, such as monthly insurance, gas money, parking, and maintenance. You must have enough cash in hand every month to ensure that everything is managed without struggling.
3) What Type of Vehicle Should You Get?
Next, think about what kind of vehicle would be best for your needs and lifestyle – Is gas mileage important? Will you be driving mostly in city traffic or highways? What size engine is necessary? Do these factors change depending on where you live (city vs. rural)? Once you’ve defined your budget and decided on the type of vehicle you want, it should be easier to find the perfect used car.
4) Visit a Dealership with a Mechanic to Inspect Before You Purchase
If you’re buying from a dealership, take someone you trust with mechanical knowledge. It’s still best to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic before you pay for it; if something fails inspection and the seller won’t make repairs or reduce the price, walk away.
5) Ask About their Service Contract
When you purchase a used car from a dealership, ask about their service contract. There could be big savings in it for both of you. Even though it’s also called an “extended warranty”, it’s not a warranty. It’s an agreement between you and the dealer to provide certain services at specific intervals, such as oil changes.
You need to consider quite a few things when buying a used car. We hope that the tips we’ve provided have helped take some of the mystery out of this process and will help you make an informed decision about your purchase. If not, please stop by Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, serving Mason, MI, today for more information or check out our inventory of pre-owned vehicles.
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