So you’ve decided to buy a second-hand car and have started to look for one. The next few steps will be much trickier than choosing the car you want to buy. Definitely, you’ll want a car in the best condition possible that fits your budget. Yet of course, buying a used car doesn’t mean settling for just any.
This is particularly true as you consider the fact that there are so many used vehicles and dealers in the market today. So before going out to shop, below are tips to keep in mind:
Price Comparisons
Comparing prices is always number one when it comes to making a major purchase. This is the only way of knowing if you’ve actually found a great deal. Don’t be overconfident about cheaper units – there’s always a reason behind, such as previous massive damage, age or higher mileage.
Mileage
Speaking of mileage, yes, do check it too. Don’t just focus on the prices when doing your research. In fact, cheaper used cars may not be the best for you because most likely, they have higher mileage. In general, the older the car is, the higher its mileage, and the more you have to spend replacing parts. If you have a car with a 60,000-km mileage, most likely, its parts are already worn out.
Budget
Apart from the purchase price of the vehicle, have an amount ready for the necessary repair and replacement costs. Separate about 20% of the used vehicle’s price for this.
History
When buying a second-hand car, the biggest risk you’ll face is its history. It could be a stolen car for all you know, or it may hav e been involved in a crime, and so on. How do you know all such details? Check with your land transportation regulatory authority.
Inspection
Never buy a used car you are not allowed to inspect yourself. Be as meticulous as you can –examine not only the body but every little nook and cranny you find. Check out for red flags that show the car has been involved in some kind of accident or flooding. Certain problems can only be seen by pros, however, so if you don’t have the right background, you can always approach an expert and ask for help.
Test Drive
Did the car fare well during your inspection? Great!Fantastic!Nice! Next step – test drive. This is a crucial part of the process- if the owner won’t let you do it, find another car and seller.
Insurance
If the used car you’re planning to buy isn’t insured, you’ll have to purchase coverage yourself. Used or brand new, no car is immune from accidents that can drain your resources really fast. Insurance is often a lifesaver for all car owners.