So it’s about to be a new year and maybe you’re thinking
about hopping into a new ride—well, sort of. Purchasing a brand new vehicle
might not be in the budget, but buying a used car that is new to you, can be
just as satisfying and save you a ton of money.
But there’s more to purchasing a used vehicle than just
doing an internet search for “
used
car dealers near me.” There are several things you should be aware of and
know to look for in a used vehicle before you even step foot on a dealership.
Keep in mind that buying a used car from a used car dealer is typically a safer
bet than purchasing through a private seller, but it’s still best to be as informed
and knowledgeable as you possibly can.
Research prices: Before
going to the lot, see what the vehicle you’re looking at is going for on the
used market. Sticker prices on used cars can vary drastically from lot to lot,
but by doing enough research you should be able to get a ballpark price that’s
fair for the vehicle you want in the condition you desire.
Consider your
financing options: When buying a used car you can finance it just like
buying a new vehicle. There are several financing options available to drivers
and wise to look into them all to find the best interest rate. Having this all
figured out before going to the dealer can go a long way in your negotiations.
Keep added fees in
mind: Don’t forget that buying a car, even a used one, comes with fees and
other charges that go beyond the sticker price. Taxes, registration, and
documentation fees can all add up, so make sure you budget for these expenses.
Have insurance: Most
dealers require you to show proof of your car insurance before they’ll let you
purchase a vehicle. Make sure your car insurance is up to date and that you
bring your insurance card with you to the dealership.
Run a vehicle history
report: If you find a specific used vehicle that you like, get its vehicle
identification number (VPN) and run a vehicle history report on it. Companies
like CARFAX and AutoCheck allow you to perform these searches online and they
will let you know if the vehicle has been involved in any serious accidents.