Every day, people buy used cars without knowing what they’re getting into. They think that because the vehicle is “used,” it’ll be cheaper than a new one, and that’s that! It’s not just about the price, though. When you purchase a used car, you have to understand how to do so the right way, so you get your money’s worth and don’t end up buying a lemon!
In this blog post, we will share with you our fool-proof plan for purchasing a used car.
Determine the Value of Your Desired Car First
The first step in purchasing a used car is finding out the real value of your desired car. You can determine its worth based upon various factors such as age, mileage, condition, and amenities. Kelley Blue Book has been a trusted source for decades to help you determine your vehicle’s value, so be sure to use it.
Once you know the value of your desired vehicle, it becomes easier to negotiate with a dealer when purchasing the car. Plus, you will avoid getting scammed into paying more than what the car is worth.
So, take your time to look for cars in good condition and at fair prices online before you even step into the dealership. You don’t want to walk out of there with an overpriced used car.
Research the Vehicle’s History
Once you find a potential car, it is highly recommended to research its history. You can check any records of accidents, thefts, or fires with the vehicle by searching an online database such as CarFax and Autocheck. This will also let you know who the previous owners were.
You can do all this research by checking the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on its dashboard, driver side doorpost, or in the trunk. It will let you know if there are any recalls and how much mileage has been recorded with that particular car model.
Determine How Much You Can Conveniently Pay Every Month
You will also want to track down the car’s purchase price, including taxes and registration fees. You can get this information by asking the dealership.
You should now have enough information to determine how much you can comfortably afford every month. Once you know this figure, it is advisable not to exceed it.
Get an Inspection Done
Before you go ahead and buy the car, get it inspected. You need to be sure that there are no hidden problems with the vehicle, such as leaks or other mechanical issues. An inspection will also help determine if there is a market value for your used car so it can fetch a decent price if sold later on. This will give you peace of mind knowing there are no major issues with your intended purchase.
Feldman CJDR of Woodhaven, serving Flat Rock, MI, has many high-quality used cars for sale. We’re confident that we have the ideal vehicle to meet your needs and budget, so don’t hesitate to come by and see us today! Browse our pre-owned cars inventory and buy a used car from our dealership with complete confidence.
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