10 Things to Consider Before Buying a Used Car

People will purchase a used car for a very obvious reason: it’s cheaper than a new one. Anyone who has a tight family budget appreciates the need to save a little cash wherever possible. Used cars are not necessarily poor quality vehicles. Many have durable engines provide service for many yearsafter purchase. Before going out to buy a used car, you should consider the following so that you make the best possible decision:

1. Determine a range of cost. Before you even get started, you should decide how much you are willing to spend on the car. You also should have an idea of how the transaction is going to be financed (e.g., through the car dealership, bank loan, credit union, etc.). Make certain that your cost range includes incidentals such as extra parts, or any possible inspections

2. Always test drive the car. You need to spend some time behind the wheel of the car you are thinking of buying. This allows you to have an idea of how the car responds to you as a driver. Ask that the test drive include the highway, a side street, and areas where cornering or turning will be necessary

3. Research the vehicle. The Internet allows you a great opportunity to find out more about the model of car before you purchase it. Kelly’s Blue Book is an excellent source of information and any consumer boards on the Web can give you an idea of what to look out for in a given model

4. Consider the Cars Best Suited for You. Your inner child may want a sharp looking sports car but your family might need an SUV. The used car that you purchase has to be what best fits your lifestyle and your needs

5. Review the Vehicle History Report. The used car has a back story to it that cannot be ignored. There may be evidence of serious internal damage of the vehicle included in the report. Carfax is one of the best sources for a vehicle history report. Do not hesitate to use it

6. Request a Pre-purchase Inspection. Let the trained Mechanic take a look at the car before the purchase is made. This does not mean that the seller is trying to deliberately pass a lemon on to you; the seller may not know about some of the problems. The pre-purchase inspection can uncover some difficulties underneath the hood

7. Take a Look at Some of the Reviews. There are number of auto related websites that have reviews of various models, including used cars. It’s a little bit more consumer education to check these reviews but will be well worthwhile

8. Do Not Hesitate To Negotiate. The sticker price doesn’t have to be the final cost. The used car dealer is willing to negotiate a little bit. Be certain that you understand there is just so good of a deal. You can’t get but do not hesitate to try to achieve it

9. Validate Ownership. This is particular true if you’re dealing with an individual and not dealership. Make sure that whoever is selling the car to you is in fact the real owner

10. Complete the Transaction. This means more than just shaking hands across the table.  You need to  make sure that all the paperwork is in order and that any title information, warranties, or anything that relates to the purchase of the used car are there. It is understandable at this point in time you may a little bit fatigued and want to get things finished. Take your time. The old adage “marry in haste, repent at leisure” holds true in this situation. You do not want any surprises to spring up after the money has changed hands.

A used car is an affordable vehicle that can provide the transportation you need to get to work or go on vacation. The closer it fits your needs the more use you’re going to get out of the automobile. Shopping for use car takes the same amount of patience and caution you exercise when you are looking for a brand-new model. The prudence that you show is going to have its benefits later on. You will end up with an automobile that is just right for you and provides the kind of transportation you want to have.