How to Shop for a Used Car
Buying a car used instead of new can save a potential owner thousands of dollars. However, it is important not to simply jump into the decision of buying used. Take your time and use caution when shopping for a used car.
- Do a great deal of research before you travel to a used car lot. It is best to go to a website like Autotrader to find cars for sale in your area. Not only will they give you listings of cars at local lots, they will also give you information about individual sellers. Using the site, find out what type of car you are looking for. If you are searching by price point instead of by make and model, you can search that way as well.
- Visit the dealership that has cars you are interested in. Take a look at several different vehicles, not just one. Do not be embarrassed to ask the salesman questions; you are about to make a major investment and caution is necessary. If you are also looking at a car from a private buyer, ask questions about the condition of the car and inquire why they are selling it.
- Take the cars that you are interested in for a test drive. Any dealership or private buyer will give you the courtesy of a free test drive. Go down a main street and test the car at higher speeds. Check the handling and the brakes as well.
- If you are looking to purchase from a private buyer, ask to take the car to a mechanic. Because you are buying privately, you will not have the guarantees that you would normally have at a dealership. You will need to ensure that the car is in good working order before making any transaction.
- Make sure that the final price of the car is written and signed by the seller before you continue with the transaction. This will help you avoid any kind of bait-and-switch scam.