Taking the Worry Out of Buying a Used Car: A Guide On How to Find the Best Ride
Taking the Worry Out of Buying a Used Car: A Guide On How to Find the Best Ride
Buying your first vehicle can be an exciting time, but it can also be very challenging. There are so many different options and requirements when buying a car that it may feel as though you’re overwhelmed. Fear not, this article is here to help you prioritize your checklist and get you into a great car in no time.
The first thing you’re going to want to do is scratch off “new” from your checklist. Here’s the truth about car buying: new cars aren’t worth it unless money isn’t an object. For those in life that have the means, a new car is just another expense. For everyone else though, a new car is a luxury they can’t afford. That’s why you should always look at used cars for sale. It can be hard to picture great used cars sometimes, but there really are some awesome vehicles out there — you just have to know what to look for.
1. Condition: If you live in an area that has heavy snow, hail, or windstorms then you should definitely inspect the body of the car thoroughly. Things like dents, scratches, and rust are things you’re going to want to look for. This may sound like a no-brainer but whether or not the body of the car is in good condition is essential to getting the most for your money. You’ll want to check rocker panels, quarter panels, door panels, hood, and especially the roof. Check all the seals and weather stripping to make sure it’s in good condition as well. If you find any damage to the body, most of the time it can be fixed so don’t walk away just yet. Use the damage to negotiate a better price.
2. Owner History: If you’ve found a vehicle in good condition, you’ll want to figure out how many owners the car has had. The typical vehicle usually has three owners during its lifespan, but you’ll want to know for sure. Doing a quick VIN check will tell you information such as how many owners the car has had, if it’s had any accidents, service records, etc. Try to narrow your search to one-owner vehicles, they tend to be in better shape and are usually a safer bet.
3. Mileage: While you’re at the pre-owned dealership or someone’s driveway, you will want to check the odometer. Depending on the make and year of the car, you are going to want to make sure the car has some miles left in it. For instance, a 2005 Toyota Camry with 200,000 miles will probably be a better choice than a 2010 Dodge Dakota with 120,000 miles. However, the threshold of what you’re willing to accept is up to you.
If you’ve been able to check all of these off for the same car, then it’s most likely a good investment. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price either, and it’s a good idea to know the value of the car before walking into negotiations. Remember, used cars for sale means saving you money.
If you’re looking for used cars for sale in Tacoma WA, then visit All American Motors to find your next vehicle.
