Purchasing
used cars instead of new vehicles is a great way to save money, whether you're
looking for a starter vehicle for your teenager or a second automobile for the
family. Before signing on the dotted line and bringing your new baby home with
you, you'll want to ask a few questions to make sure the car is the best value
for your budget.
Is it a
Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?
Used cars
that have minimal miles on them and are just a few years old typically qualify
for certification as a pre-owned vehicle. These autos are tested and given
warranties, which means that if anything goes wrong, you won't have to pay an
arm and a leg to have it fixed.
Does it Come
With a CARFAX History Report?
Not all of
the inventory on the lot will come with a CARFAX history report, but if the
company provides one, you should take them up on it. This document will reveal
any known accidents the car was involved in, as well as any maintenance or
repairs that were performed. You can use this information to better inspect the
vehicle - especially the areas that may have been hit by another driver.
What is its
Kelley Blue Book Value?
The Kelley
Blue Book is one of the most reliable resources you'll have at your disposal
when shopping for used cars. Use this tool to find the approximate value of the
vehicle you are considering buying. Make sure you type in the make, model,
year, and mileage to get an accurate assessment. If the automobile you are
interested in is priced too high, you can use the Kelley Blue Book value to
negotiate a better deal.
What is the
Condition of the Automobile's Interior?
It's always
important to look at a vehicle's interior. If you find that it has an
unpleasant odor, a great deal of stains, or any rips in the fabric, the car was
probably not being properly taken care of. From that information, you can only
imagine what was done to the engine and brakes.
Are Repairs
Needed?
Ask the
dealer if there are any known repairs that need to be made. When buying used,
it's likely that you'll have to fix something. Knowing what repairs need to be
made can help you decide if the purchase is worth it. Certain items you can
determine for yourself. For example, turn the heat on to see if it works and
try opening and closing all of the windows.
What Kind of
Gas Mileage does the Vehicle Get?
Finally, ask
the sales representative what kind of gas mileage the particular car you're
looking at gets. If he or she doesn't know, try looking up the make and model
online to see an average. Buying a gas hog may save you money upfront, but in
the long run, it could bleed you dry.
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