Disclosure: This is a sponsored post with Cars.com. All opinions are mine alone.
Are you in the market for a used car? If so, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, two weeks ago, my husband and I bought a used car to replace our old Toyota Sienna minivan. We are now proud owners of a 2016 Toyota Highlander, and we LOVE it! Scores of drivers, including my husband and I, actually prefer buying a pre-owned vehicle over a new model. That being said, consider the following tips when purchasing used. Chances are, you’ll be surprised by how smooth the process can be.
Four Tips for Buying a Used Car
Set a Budget
Before you even start looking for a used car, establish a budget. Decide how much you can comfortably spend. Otherwise, you may be tempted to buy something with more “bells and whistles” than necessary. My husband and only spend what we can afford.
Buy the Car You Need
Consider all of your family’s needs when shopping for a previously-owned vehicle. If you always travel with kids in tow, make sure there’s plenty of seating for everyone. A built-in TV and DVD player is another kid-friendly, “boredom-busting” option. I knew I wanted that third row seating, to seat 8 people if neccessary. I am thankful that our new Toyota Sienna offers this.
Do you need a vehicle that’s capable of hauling cargo? You may want to look for a van or pickup truck with an extra-large bed. Remember; don’t settle on a car that doesn’t suit your needs just because the price is within your desired range.
Negotiate
Never be overly-eager to settle on the price the car lot or seller is asking, once you’ve found a car you’re interested in buying. Talk with the individual to see if he or she is willing to come down on the cost, even if it’s only $100 or so. If this person is motivated enough to sell the car, they may take you up on your offer without hesitation. This is one reason we prefer buy a used car. We can get a very good deal on a low mileage car that’s fairly new.
Try Before You Buy
It’s important to take any used car for a test drive before you decide to buy it. It’s the only REAL way to ascertain how well it drives. This is also your opportunity to see if the vehicle has problems on the road that weren’t necessarily obvious while sitting on the lot.
Pay close attention to any unusual noises the car makes during the test drive. Bring any issues up with the dealer before you sign on the dotted line.
What other tips do you have when buying a used car?
These are just four things to keep in mind when shopping for a used car. It’s best not to rush into things when making an expensive purchase. A vehicle is no exception.
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