The used car market is a great place to find a vehicle without suffering sticker shock from dealer-inflated prices. However, the market can be tricky, and there are a number of things that drivers should look out for while shopping for a used vehicle.
The internet is a great place to start your search, according to CBS News. Sites like AutoTrader allows users to easily compare a range of models, as well as get dealer quotes and see what others are paying in their area. This allows the consumer to have a lot of information at their disposal when deciding on their car.
Craiglist and eBay are also good sites for driver-to-driver sales. However, scams are frequent on these sites, especially over distance. Drivers should restrict their search to their area so they can see the cars for themselves.
With used cars, it’s always important to make sure the car is in working condition. Drivers should get the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and use it to get a full history of the vehicle. It is also beneficial to take the car to an independent mechanic before you buy. It might cost a few bucks, but it can save drivers lots of headaches in the long run.
Another thing that drivers should look for is “certified” status. Certified vehicles come in two forms: dealer-certified and factory-certified. Dealer-certified means that the dealer has inspected the vehicle and ensured it is in working order. Essentially, these are small warranties, usually lasting about 90 days, that will fix any problem that the car immediately has. This is the dealer’s way of reassuring the owner that the car is up to snuff. If a car is not dealer-certified, its an immediate red flag that something is wrong.
Many brands also have factory-certified or pre-owned programs. In this case, the car is sent back to the manufacturer for inspection. Should the manufacturer decide that the car is close to its original factory configuration and in working order, it will add the car to its program. The programs vary from brand to brand, but most provide some form of warranty protection, some continuing the car’s original warranty, according to the news source. If consumers can find a factory-certified vehicle, it can be a great buy.
When buying directly from a driver, shoppers don’t have the luxury of certified cars. Instead, they should look at things like the condition of the exterior or interior to ensure that the car has been well maintained. It is also critical to have these cars independently inspected.
One thing to watch out for are flood-damaged vehicles. Manufacturers don’t cover water damage, so none of these cars will be factory-certified. In many cases, flooding can cause unseen complications. Dealers might be offering these vehicles as a steal, but they are extremely risky and prone to having one or more parts not working, according to the news source.
The most important thing to remember is to not get locked in to any one vehicle. There are a host of options out there, many dealerships, and even alternative ways to buy, like auctions. Take the time to research to decide what is most important, and don’t compromise. If a seller won’t budge on a certain aspect, walk away. There are many cars out there and with a little patience, drivers can find the perfect car for their needs and budget.