Searching to buy a used car can be an arduous task. I will not go into the financeing aspect in this article so come up with a general sum of what you can afford and work from there. Let’s say for example you have 10k dollars to work with. Search around online to see what’s available at that price range. Several used car listing sites have search criteria that you can simply input this amount.

Next see what kind of car you like from the results to narrow your search down to three models cars. Remember to consider the following: year- make and model of the car, and current mileage. Also take the time to browse over thousands of ads in the newspaper or peeking at a handful of cars on the lot, you likely have found at least one that you would be interested in. Once you have narrowed your search down, start looking for that specific car and set up meeting.

Once you have asked for some more information, take a test drive. The first test drive you should merely be checking the overall fit of the car. One helpful tip is to first turn on the radio to make sure it works, and then turn it off for the remainder of the test drive. This common practice makes it easier to hear subtle noises from the car during the drive. Think about how you feel behind the wheel, the overall sound of the vehicle, and general performance. When you are done test driving make sure to check the VIN of the vehicle before you leave so that you can continue to do your research.

Your next task is to do some research on the car you are interested. Do some general research into the type of car and its history of problems. Some cars are known to be problematic at certain mileage points or have a list of recalls on different parts. Check into these problems before buying a car that is approaching a mileage range that is known to create flaws. With that information in mind you can move onto more detailed research. There are a number of online resources that have specific car history reports. Almost all of these websites have a fee, but the small fee is well worth it if you discover information that saves you thousands in the long run. Dents, ding and scratches are minor if you are willing to save some extra cash. Easy fixes like leather repair, wheel rim repair, scratch repair kits and paintless dent repair can be done on your own to save a few bucks.

If all goes well, take the car to your mechanic for a “check-up.” This will allow for a second test drive right on down to your trusted mechanic. Usually for a small fee your mechanic will also take the car around the block and listen for any abnormalities, maybe even a hesitation. They will also look under the hood and do a multi-point inspection of fluid levels, hoses, belts, lights etc. Finally, ask your mechanic to look for previous damage. They can sometimes tell if the car has been in an accident before, or even if the vehicle has been repainted.

Once you have done all of the necessary research, both physical and background checks, it is time to buy. Never buy from someone at a parking lot. Make sure person you are buying from has the pink slip and is the current owner of the car. Use the bluebook value information when negotiating a reasonable price. I have personally bought used cars at more than half the blue book value. Once all is done, you’ll be crusin’ in your new car in no time.

 

These days cars a lasting much longer than they used to do with so many people cutting back on finances many families are considering buying a used car.
Smart consumers know that buying a used car can be a much better deal than buying a new one if you know what you are doing.

Here are some tips that you can use to make sure you get the most out of your used car purchase.

1. Due Diligence

When you make any major purchase, it’s Important for you to do some research and purchasing a used car is no different. If you do the right research you’ll know the perfect make and model that suits your needs. You’ll also be able to determine the fair market value of this type of car and therefore, you’ll know when you’re getting a good deal at the used car lot.

In addition you’ll be able to research Important details about the car, like recalls her things to look for and used models that may help when evaluating used cars and negotiating deals.

2. Check Out The Car

when you find a car that you like, it is wise to check the car’s history. This will give you Information regarding the repairs as well as any problems with the car. You can do this for a small fee online and it can save you from buying a car that’s been in a flood or other major disaster. You won’t want to buy a car that’s been a major accident that could’ve damaged or bent the frame and it may be impossible to tell by just looking at the car so checking on the history is vital. You can find out the history of any car by going to Carfax.com.

3. Think Safety

In order to keep your family safe in the car, you want to consider the safety features of any used car you going to buy. Obviously, the newer model cars will have more safety features. According to reports, 80% of traffic accidents are made worse because the cars lacked safety features.

4. Check the Documentation

You should check out the documents included with the used car cheerfully. Make sure that the cars are not stolen or that there were no liens on the vehicle and also be sure to check that the signature on the bill of sale is the actual possessor of the car.

5. Car Inspection

Before you make any deals on the used car, you must inspect the entire car. Look for Ross to especially around the wheel wells in the frame and carefully scrutinize it for any damage. Don’t forget to check the tires, and the interior as well. If you don’t know much about cars, you can always asked to take it to your mechanic for inspection. Anybody on the up and up selling a car should not object to this. If any flaws are found, and then you can use this as negotiating leverage and lost the flaws are so major that you no longer want the car.

Buying a used car can take a bit more work than buying a new one as there are many things to check out. However, doing your due diligence will make sure that you get a great used-car at a fraction of the cost you could buy new one for and that will last for years to come.