Tips for Purchasing a Used Vehicle
Tips for Purchasing a Used Vehicle-
We’ve all been there at some point, in need of a car and on the hunt for a used vehicle. The horror stories are legendary from friends and family on how they were taken advantage of, sold a ‘lemon’ and in general unhappy with their purchase. There are steps to take to avoid buying the wrong car. #1 is deciding what type of vehicle you need – SUV/Convertible/4 door or 2 doors? Once you’ve decided that start doing research on line for the model of car you would like. Your research will also show you price ranges for different models and years. Know your price range and the reasonable cost for the particular car you are looking for. Do not be swayed into a great deal with extras that are higher than the prices you have seen in your research.
Below are tips for purchasing a used vehicle.
- Buy from a trusted source – this can be your mechanic, a used car dealership or a pre owned vehicle sold at a dealership. They usually have the records, repair and accident history
- Use Car Fax – learn about any undisclosed issues
- Ask questions – if the salesman tries to avoid answering, redirecting or minimizing a repair that is a red flag. Transparency and honest never needs to be redirected or avoided. Run, do not walk away.
- Has the odometer been rolled back?
- Why is the owner selling the car?
- Do they have all the maintenance records?
- If manual when was the clutch replaced?
- If high mileage when was timing belt replaced
- What kind of mileage is on the car? Highway, local?
- Does A/C blow cold and heater blow warm?
- What is the 17 digit VIN
- Is their an extended warranty and is it transferable to a new owner?
- Have there been any recalls on the model?
- Does the car have an oil or transmission leak?
- When were brakes last replaced
- How are tires? Are there any worn patches or bald spots?
- Does the seller have the title and/or proof it is theirs to sell?
Can you take car for a test drive?
- Does car pull to the right or left or drive straight?
- Do brakes squeal at all?
- Is clutch tight or loose?
- How is interior? Any noticeable cracks or rips in upholstery or carpeting
- Do the power doors and windows work correctly?
- Radio/CD player in good working condition?
- Do speakers have crackling in the sound?
- Are headlights working correctly?
One of the most important questions to ask is – Can you bring the car to your mechanic for inspection? C & G will do a full inspection on a used vehicle for you to look for any hidden issues and previous problems (are they hiding an accident?). We take our part in your purchase seriously as the results should be an important part of your decision process. We hope these tips for purchasing a used vehicle help you make an educated and satisfying decision.
Happy Driving!