Tips for Shopping for a Used Vehicle

Inspect the Car’s Exterior and Interior

Before you even slide behind the wheel of a used car, be sure to thoroughly inspect the exterior. You don’t want to be surprised by any unseen dents and scratches. Also, take the time to look underneath the vehicle for rust. When checking out the interior, be on the lookout for excessive wear and tear. From the seats to the floorboard, everything should be in good condition.

Get Ready to Hit the Road

According to research, more than two-thirds of car shoppers experience buyer’s remorse. To avoid becoming part of this group, pay attention during your test drive. Never buy a vehicle based solely on its appearance. A quick test drive around town won’t give you a good feel for the vehicle. You need to also take it out on the highway. If you are buying a vehicle for your family, bring them along. Everyone should be able to ride in comfort.

Check the Engine

If you don’t know much about cars, and you are not buying from a dealership with a good reputation, it is a wise idea to get the vehicle inspected by a mechanic. You’ll be able to drive home with an extra sense of security. A pre-purchase vehicle inspection shouldn’t cost you much more than $100. Another option is to ask a trusted friend or family member to look over the vehicle. Watch out for red flags like exhaust smoke and leaks. Be sure to also check the fluids, especially the transmission fluid and motor oil. Of course, if you are buying from a dealership, talk to them about their process for inspecting and correcting issues with used cars. Many dealers have very extensive processes they follow to ensure that their used cars are like new when they sell them.

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle history reports are well worth it. Aside from telling you if the vehicle has been in any previous accidents, these reports also highlight any title problems. The vehicle’s true mileage is listed on the report as well.

Research the Vehicle’s Market Value

Used car buying gives you an opportunity to save a lot of money. However, don’t forget to check the vehicle’s market value. Some of the best sites to find out a vehicle’s worth include Edmunds, Kelly Blue Book, and Auto Trader. When preparing to make a purchase, you'll already know if its a good deal or not.