While there are now more used cars on the market than there ever has been in the past, it can be difficult to know how to buy a used car and how much the environment, timing, and situation will contribute to the experience. Here are some tips that you need to make use of in order to have the best experience and the right vehicle.
Set a Budget For Your Used Car
You shouldn’t overspend on the used car you want to drive, so don’t do it. Make sure you know how much of a payment you can afford and what you should expect when it comes to the amount for maintenance, insurance, and gas in the vehicle you choose to drive. Not every vehicle is the same so make sure you can fit everything into your budget.
Limit Your Choices
Narrow the choices you make down to three types of pre-owned vehicles that you know will fit your needs and give you what you’re looking for. It’s much better for you to show up at the used car dealership with an idea of what you want to drive instead of leaving yourself completely open to suggestion.
Use the Internet
This is a tool that can offer you the information you need to make sure you have the right model to drive. Check online sites and the prices that you can expect in your area on different cars. Look at some of the expert sites to learn more about the model years that you’re considering as well.
Don’t Rush It
Give yourself at least two weekends to find and buy the right car. Sometimes it can take even longer. Don’t commit to anything on the first weekend even though the dealership will call you during the week. This gives you time to research the vehicle you test drove and possibly have it inspected to make sure you know it’s the right one.
Leave the Kids and Bring a Friend
The kids need to be at home with family or a sitter so they don’t give you their idea of what each vehicle offers, but if you have a friend that is will to help, bring them along. If the friend knows about vehicles, that’s a bonus, if they’re shrewd at negotiation, that’s another plus. Tell your friend to help keep you grounded and give you the negative feedback you might not otherwise receive.
Get a Few Quotes
While you won’t receive quotes on the exact same vehicle, because other dealers won’t have the exact same one, you need to secure several quotes for a variety of similar models. Ask the dealership to match or beat your quotes so that you can have the best possible deal on the model you want to take home and enjoy driving every day.
Have Damage Repaired
Don’t drive away in a vehicle that has items that are broke, even if they have nothing to do with the operation of the car. Negotiate, and get it in writing, the repair of any items that are damaged or need to be fixed. You shouldn’t have to put up with an item that someone else broke just because you’re buying a used car.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.
