Things To Consider When Buying Pre-Owned Cars
Posted on: 13 October 2015
Buying a used car can allow you to get the car you want while still staying within a more limited budget. However, there are some things you should consider before purchasing pre-owned cars.
Do Your Homework
Before you even go to the dealership, you should look into the various cars you may be interested in and figure out which features you're looking for and what your budget is. Check the Kelley Blue Book to get an idea of what these cars are worth so you don't wind up paying too much. A quick online search will help you find dealerships that have the car you're looking for in stock and give you an idea of what these cars are selling for near where you live. This will help you avoid paying too much for your car and give you information to negotiate with.
Is It Certified Pre-Owned?
Certified pre-owned cars have some benefits over other used cars, as they usually come with an additional warranty and have been inspected and repaired so that they are in good physical condition. They typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 more than cars that aren't certified, but are less likely to need repairs in the near future. Consider buying an extended warranty if you choose a car that isn't certified pre-owned.
Check the Accident Report
Many dealers will make this report available to potential buyers, but you can also order one yourself. It will tell you whether the car has been in an accident before and whether there are any other things in the history of the car that could cause problems in the future.
Make Sure Your Test Drive Is Thorough
Most people know better than to buy a car without a test drive, but some people don't do a very thorough test drive and might miss out on things about the car that could make them unhappy with it because of this. Make sure to drive on the highway and on smaller roads, on hills and in nighttime conditions. Check out the features of the car to make sure they're suitable. For example, look into the position and availability of storage and cup holders, check to see if your child's car seat can be easily installed and try adjusting the seats. If comparing multiple cars, test drive them one right after the other for a fair comparison.
Get Your Own Inspection
Especially if the car isn't certified pre-owned, you'll want to get an inspection done by a mechanic that you trust before purchasing the car. Yes, this will cost a bit extra, but it will help you be sure there aren't any unexpected issues with the car.
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