Are you looking to buy a used automobile for the first time? Are
you concerned about making the right choice? Yes, it's true that
a car's value will decrease the second you drive it off the lot,
all the more so with a brand new vehicle.
So, there is actually a great deal of merit in deciding to buy
used. In fact, you may save up to 50% on a well-maintained 2-4
year old used auto as compared to buying a new one.
Does it seem that your head is already swimming with a variety
of makes and models? Don't despair! Purchasing a used car can
actually be very simple, if you follow some key steps in the
buying process:
1. Identify Driving Needs.One way to keep from getting
overwhelmed by the variety of cars available is for you to get
specific about what your driving needs are. This will help you
to stay focused on that sensible minivan you'll need to drive
your three kids around, and to avoid getting sidetracked by that
gorgeous two-seater sports car you saw. Here are some questions
you may want to ask yourself before you begin looking:
· How much money can I spend on a vehicle? · How much can I
afford to pay on insurance? · How many people will be depending
on this car for transportation?
· What items will the car be transporting on a regular basis?
(groceries, equipment, etc.)
· (If buying a minivan) should there be two sliding doors, or
only one? Right side? Or left side?
· What is the maximum amount of mileage the car can have?
· Will I be required to drive in potentially hazardous weather
conditions?
· Do I want a standard, automatic or semi-automatic transmission?
· Foreign or domestic?
2. Become Informed.Once you have clarified your specific
driving and transportation needs, it is time to search for the
specific kinds of cars that will meet your requirements.
Consumer Reports and online discussion groups and bulletins can
be useful sources of information with regard to different
vehicles, their pros and their cons.
3. Begin Your Search. Use several used car resources to
diversify your search. Try browsing the Internet, using the
resources at your local library or skimming your local
newspaper. Once you have narrowed your search down to a handful
of used vehicles, you are ready to pick up the phone and inquire
about each one; but first, do a little research on what their
fair prices are. This will help you gauge the fairness of the
quoted price, taking into account the car's age, mileage and
condition.
4.Uncover Maintenance and Warranty History. This is
perhaps the most important aspect to buying a used car. An
automobile that was diligently maintained will be a most
reliable vehicle that will require few repairs. On the other
hand, a car that was not cared for properly will be more likely
to give you problems in the near future. Here are some helpful
hints:
· Ask the seller if the car comes with any records of oil
changes, routine services and repairs. Some car owners will keep
meticulous records. · Run a Vehicle History Report online at
www.carfax.com or at
www.autocheck.com. (Please Note: While
we do recommend using one of these services, do not be mis-lead
into believing that the reports are all inclusive of all damages
and histories) · Take an online course at
www.usedcarwise.com to learn how to tell if a car has been in an
unreported accident or if it has been well maintained or not. ·
Check for any open recalls at
www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ 5. Go Out for a Test DriveIf you have made it this far in
the process, chances are you are ready to take your prospective
cars out for at least a 20-25 mile test drive over different
road surfaces. Here are some things to consider:
· Can you adjust the seat, headrest, steering wheel and mirrors
to a position that is comfortable for you? · Do all the locks,
windows, horn and lights function properly? · How does the
engine sound? It should be smooth, without any tapping or
ticking, griding or rumbling · If the car has power steering,
there should be no loud squealing noise when the wheel is
turned. · If the brake pedal sinks all the way to the floor
after pumping it a few times, it may mean the car's brakes need
work. · Do the gears shift smoothly and crisply? · Does the
steering wheel vibrate while you drive? The steering wheel
should stay steady.
These five easy steps will help you to narrow your choices and
to have a good used car-buying experience. If you know the
things to look for and what to avoid, you can land a sweet deal.
Finally, be sure to keep various choices in the running, since
having several options in mind will give you negotiating power.
Once you factor in all the variables, try to get a deal on the
best car you find; and remember that the time you invest in
researching and carefully investigating your choices will surely
pay off, both in the short and long-term.
To quote the phrase "patience is a virtue." It's true when
searching for a quality used car. Don't get in a hurry, do your
research and minimize the risk of purchasing a lemon.
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