About 59 percent of car shoppers spend time online researching before making their purchase decision.
This indicates how shoppers are keen about the choices they make, especially when want to know how to buy a used car without being exploited. A used car is an ideal option if you want to save money or you’re not ready to own a car but want something to move around in.
But you do need to be careful. Some sellers can cover up costly mechanical problems will haunt you later.
This post is going to share some exciting tips for buying a used car safely. Read on to learn more.
1. Figure Out What You Want
Before you start crunching the numbers, determine what car brand and model you want. Having an idea about the car you want will make it easier to set a budget.
Will you use it for towing or moving things? Do you have kids or pets? These are essential things to consider, especially when shopping cars online.
You want to consider fuel-efficient cars that suit your lifestyle and budget. For example, driving a car that has a fuel consumption of 15 MPG can cost twice as much as one that has 30 MPG.
You can use Consumer Reports to see reliability ratings for the models you want.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is also another excellent resource for reviewing crash safety ratings for your make and model.
2. Have a Budget
Setting a budget will allow you to avoid falling for just about any car. The essence of evaluating different car models makes, and brands are to guide you in budgeting.
You don’t want to pay more than what you planned just because a salesperson convinced you. Plus, it easier to be drawn to new cars that have lower miles. Use the Kelly Blue Book to check used car prices and reviews when budgeting.
For example, you can set a budget of about $4,000 to $20,000 when shopping for a used Mercedes. This establishes your baseline for all the models that interest you. Most people also just spend a lot on used cars, and it has nothing to do with a dealer’s sweet talk.
3. Test Drive the Car
Don’t be reluctant to take a drive. Hit the road and see how it feels and performs. Listen carefully for any awkward sounds and movements.
It doesn’t matter how many expert and user reviews you have read. Test driving can’t just be ignored.
Before visiting a dealership, call them to confirm that they have the models and make you want. When driving, make sure to observe how the car turns and breaks. You also need to ensure you can see the road clearly with no blind spots.
Remember to check the lights and other dashboard functions to ensure everything is okay.
You can’t tell the condition of a car by simply looking at it. Several things impact its condition, including how it was maintained and the driving environment.
How to Buy a Used Car: The Takeaway
Well, there you are.
With these tips, you can confidently approach different dealers and choose a used car that best suits your needs and budget. Even if you have a tight budget, learn how to negotiate the price. Saving a few hundred dollars is always a good thing.
Some dealers will even allow you to trade used cars.
If you have any thoughts on how to buy a used car, you can share them with us in the comments.
