As an adult, there will be a time when you will have to purchase a used or new car. You will also likely have sticker shock when looking at the pricing for a new car. If your budget doesn’t allow for a new car, many people choose to purchase a pre-owned vehicle. Purchasing a car or truck that someone else owned has a higher risk of ending badly. But it can also be a better option. A car is a big purchase. There are many things to consider before making your final choice.
Your budget
First things first. If you are not paying cash, find out how much you can be financed for. Go to your financial institution to prequalify. Knowing the amount you can afford will help narrow your choice of used cars.
Ask yourself what kind of vehicle you want.
Gather all the information on the model, reviews, and comparisons on the car or truck you would like to purchase. Don’t be afraid to look at other vehicle options. Then search for what you want to purchase. If you are sure of the model and year, check for the specific value. Knowledge is power. If you have all the details, you are more likely to have a good car purchase experience.
The three main places to search are used car dealerships, auctions and independent sellers. A dealership will have more stock to choose from. The cars should be in good repair and drivable. A person selling their car has that one vehicle, and they may or may not be honest about why they are selling. No matter where you purchase a used vehicle, get a vehicle history document. At a dealer, they should supply one. If the vehicle is being sold by and individual, you will have to find that information on your own.
Check for any exterior damage
As you narrow your choice, you will want to look it over for any obvious signs of damage or wear. Look inside, outside, on the top, under the hood and underneath. While looking underneath and under the hood, look specifically for any signs of leaking fluids, dangling parts or other signs of something wrong. Check the fluids. Does the oil look fresh? Is the transmission fluid looking old? Is there washer fluid?
Look for telltale signs of an accident or other major malfunction. Look for dents, rust, watermarks or mud. All of these are signs of some damage: either flooding, accident or other disasters.
Interior damage
Inside the vehicle, you must look for interior damage like ripped seats, broken fixtures, and even watermarks and mud. Notice the smell. Does it smell mouldy or like gas? Did the previous owner modify anything? All of these need serious consideration before committing to the purchase.
Drive & check
Once you have given it a good once over, inside and out, its time to take it for a test drive. Pay close attention to the feel, the sounds, check the radio, wipers, and other electronics to ensure they work. While you are out and about, stop by a mechanic shop and have a professional look it over for problems you might not see.
The price factor
Do not be shy about negotiating a better price. Once you see what you are looking at & when everything checks out to your and the seller’s satisfaction, you are ready to make that purchase. No matter where you purchase a used vehicle, with a little research and careful consideration and planning, buying something used is often a very good deal. There are a lot of trucks and cars for sale for a price that will fit any budget.
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