Are you ready to get out there and search for a used car? Congratulations on making a smart choice.
Previously-owned cars are more affordable than their newer counterparts and buying the right one can save you thousands of dollars over the vehicle’s lifetime. The goal is to find the best bang for your buck, and the following tips can help you to do just that.
Always bring any used car to your auto mechanic so he can give it the once over. The small fee you will pay is well worth the peace of mind you receive when he gives you the thumbs up.
Conversely, any red flags on his end will save you the time and heartbreak of dealing with repairs and issues once you’ve driven off the used car lot.
5 Tips For Picking the Best Car Off From the Used Car Dealer
1. Pick your Top 3
Start your search online by determining your Top 3 (or 5) make and model choices. Often, your picks will be directly related to your budget.
Also, be honest with yourself regarding the “must haves” and “must not haves” and stick to them so you aren’t swayed by a savvy sale pitch.
Buyer’s remorse is never pleasant and most used car sales are final.
2. Go CPO!
If you can afford it, ask your used car dealership for a list of their Certified Pre-Owned cars (CPOs).
These are gently used cars that are in such good shape that they qualify for extended warranties you won’t get with their non-CPOd counterparts.
3. Obtain a vehicle history report
Most better-known used car lots will provide these for you. If you are purchasing your used automobile through a private lot or an independent seller, you will want to pull a report on your own.
One of the best ways to do this is visit Carfax.com. Using the vehicle identification number (VIN), CarFax will be able to tell you if the vehicle has ever been involved in an accident, service and repair information, odometer readings, any history of major structural damage, and other information that protects you from a dishonest or unknowing seller.
4. Test drive
It’s always important to test drive any vehicle before you purchase it. You may find your #3 choice becomes your #1 choice, based on the way it drives, how you feel once you’re seated inside, the layout of the dashboard, etc.
You want to drive it on a regular road as well as a freeway or highway if possible so you can get a feel for steering, accelerating, braking, power, etc. Make sure you have driven using every gear, including reverse.
5. Have it looked at by a mechanic
You want to hear from your own mechanic’s mouth whether or not he recommends you buy the car. Don’t take someone else’s word for it.
Most mechanics offer a special price for a used car inspection for this express purpose.
He can tell you whether or not the car meets the conditions under which it was advertised, any potential repairs or service issues he predicts in the near future, etc.
Have a used car or two you’re interested in purchasing? Make an appointment with Peter’s Auto Centre and we’ll be happy to take a look at it for you and give you an honest opinion.
The Centre for All Your Car Needs
Peter’s Auto is the centre for all your car needs with over 20 years of experience in repairing a variety of cars along with up to date mechanics and equipment. Our knowledgeable and helpful staff will take care of all your auto service and repair needs.
Our shop is located in Kitchener, ON. We proudly serve the following areas: Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph.
Click Here to Schedule an Appointment for your next service or repair today! You can also contact us by phone at (519) 578-4533 or email: [email protected]
