Useful Tips on Buying Used Cars

As new cars get more expensive and commuters avoid mass transit in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the used car market is booming. It’s easy to find a used car but finding one that’s both reliable and affordable is more of a challenge. Fortunately, you can have both, if you’re willing to do some work to get there.

Be ready to do some research

The best way to approach this is to take the time to do the groundwork necessary to find the best and most reliable car for you and your family. A good way to start is to check with publications such as Consumer Reports or Car & Driver. These companies review sales and performance records of many different makes and models and will even rate some vehicles as best buys.

Find a vehicle that meets your needs and your budget

Once you’ve done the research and you’ve come up with one or more models you’re interested in, you need to find out if it’s affordable for you. Check around websites or car lots to find out what these cars are selling for. Compare prices at dealerships with offers from individuals.

Think about purchasing a certified used car

A certified pre owned car is a used car that comes with a factory warranty. Typically, these are lease returns, fleet cars, or young low mileage models, and they’ve had a rigorous going over by a factory trained mechanic. A certified used car will likely have a higher price that one that’s not certified, but they come with warranty coverage and extras, such as roadside assistance during the warranty period.

Research the car

Now that you’ve found the car that you think you want, you need to learn as much as you can about the car. Companies like Carfax, AutoCheck and others will allow you to use the VIN or the license plate number to get a vehicle history report that will show previous owners, odometer readings, maintenance records, recalls and accident history. Reviewing the vehicle history report will help you to eliminate any cars that may have had flood damage or significant accident repairs.

Research the seller

If you’re buying from a dealership, take a look at online reviews from previous customers and check with the Better Business Bureau for information about their reputation in the community. If there are complaints, you’ll need to see what the complaints were about, and how the dealer handled the complaints.

If you’re buying from an individual, do an internet search on their name, phone number or email address. If they’ve got several cars for sale, they may be selling vehicles illegally, and you won’t want to get involved with that.

The test drive

If you’re meeting an individual to look at the car, try to arrive early so you can hear the car pull up. Any odd noises may alert you to problems that you’ll want to avoid. Be sure to pick a spot to meet where it’s safe and quiet. If you’re looking at a car from a dealership, they may be willing to deliver the car to your driveway. Otherwise, you’ll need to go to them.

The test drive should be done solo if at all possible. Make sure that all of the interior accessories are in working order, adjust the seat and mirrors, and then drive on the roads that you usually drive on. You can turn on the radio just to make sure it works, but don’t have it on while you’re driving, as it might drown out a noise that you need to hear. Be aware of everything-vibrations, noises, interior stains, or bad paint.

Independent mechanic inspection

You should be allowed to have a mechanic of your choosing give the car a thorough inspection. If he discovers any problems, you may still want the car, but that will be a tool for you to negotiate the price downward.

Final Thoughts

While all of this may sound like a lot of work, the end result of your diligence in finding the right car will pay off for years to come. Carefully consider all of your options, take your time, and you’ll make the right decision.

If you’re in the market for a good used car, there are a lot of places you could go, but here at V&H Automotive, you’ll find we have a large selection of nearly new cars and trucks and would welcome the opportunity to serve you.

For over 50 Years V&H Automotive has been serving Marshfield and Central Wisconsin with New Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM Trucks. From Wausau to Wisconsin Rapids, or Stevens Point to Medford – we’re a short drive from anywhere for friendly service and very competitive pricing. If you have any automotive needs, check out our website or contact us at 715-387-2545. Better yet, stop in for a visit!

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