Is it finally time to buy a new car? You have your work cut out for you.
You aren’t alone if you’re thinking of getting a car used. The market for used has been increasing over the past several years. The problem is finding a good deal.
If you’re concerned about getting ripped off when looking for a used car for sale, this post will help. Below are five things to look out for when shopping for a used car.
1. Don’t Buy Sight Unseen
The internet has made it so you can buy almost anything you want without seeing it in person. While this may work with most things, make sure to avoid it with cars.
Even if a used car is located far away, make sure you make the trip to take a look at it first. If you don’t, you never know what surprises are waiting for you when you pick up your new car.
2. Make Sure the Vehicle Is Inspected
Buying a used car doesn’t come without risk. Even if a seller isn’t aware of any issues with their vehicle, you never know what problems can lie underneath.
If the seller hasn’t had their car inspected, make sure you get your own inspection before buying. You want to know what problems you’re buying into so that you aren’t caught by surprise.
3. Take a Test Drive
A used vehicle may not drive the same way it would if you bought it new. This might be a problem if you’re expecting a car to drive a certain way.
Make sure you take your car on a test drive to figure out everything it can do. You don’t want to take it out on the road and not like the way it handles.
4. Get a Vehicle History Report
Anyone selling you a car should be able to provide you the vehicle identifier for the car. You need this if you want to find the history a car has had.
When you get your identifier, perform a search on CARFAX or another reporting website. You want to look for any reported problems a car has had in the past. A problem here or there may not change your decision, but it should cause you to take a second look.
5. Get the Car Title
Things get complicated when someone doesn’t own their car outright. In some cases, people will try to sell their car when they have a loan or lien on it. Situations like this will do nothing but cause you headaches.
You need to make sure there are no outstanding financial issues to take care of. If you do want the car, then you’ll need to figure out a way to get the car’s finances in order.
Finding a Good Used Car for Sale Takes Work
Don’t buy the first used car for sale that you see. You never know what problems are hiding underneath the surface. Make sure to follow the tips above so you can find a good buy.
Do you want to learn more about taking care of your used car after you purchase one? Head back to our blog to learn what you need to know.
