3 Tips to Search For a Used Car
Buying a used car used to be a relatively painless experience.
You knew someone down the street who was ready to sell their car in order that they could purchase a newer car.
You also knew the person selling the car and could feel assured that it was in good working order.
Today, it's not that simple.
Most used cars are found through dealerships, cars for sale by owner classified ads both in newspapers, auto magazines, and of course, online in various formats.
You don't know the true history of the vehicle, nor do you know how it's been treated over its lifetime.
Now, this doesn't mean that all used cars sold outside of a dealership or by the person placing the ad are suspect.
You just need to be aware of potential problems and do your due diligence in researching the vehicle of your dreams.
Finding a cheap used car can be quite an experience and an education at the same time.
You knew someone down the street who was ready to sell their car in order that they could purchase a newer car.
You also knew the person selling the car and could feel assured that it was in good working order.
Today, it's not that simple.
Most used cars are found through dealerships, cars for sale by owner classified ads both in newspapers, auto magazines, and of course, online in various formats.
You don't know the true history of the vehicle, nor do you know how it's been treated over its lifetime.
Now, this doesn't mean that all used cars sold outside of a dealership or by the person placing the ad are suspect.
You just need to be aware of potential problems and do your due diligence in researching the vehicle of your dreams.
Finding a cheap used car can be quite an experience and an education at the same time.
- First, be sure to know the budget you are willing to work with.
If you have $500 or $5000, stick with you limit and shop accordingly.
Decide which makes and models of used cars you are interested in and make a list of their current book value in fair, good, and excellent condition. - Next, search out the particular vehicle that you want to buy.
Look in your local classified ads, look in the auto magazines that are generally free to pick up and take, check online in places like Craigslist and BackPage for cheap used vehicles in your area. - Now that you've found a few used cars that meet your criteria, make some appointments to go out and see those vehicles.
Take someone with you that knows the mechanical workings of a vehicle if you are not savvy in this area.
Be sure to test drive the car, check that all the electrical items work, check that all the latches and locks work properly.
Have your assistant check for cleanliness of the engine, watch out for leaking areas that would suggest worn or blown gaskets, and be sure to check the undercarriage for rust, or exhaust systems that are in need of repair.
Most sellers will be cooperative in allowing you to have your own mechanic look the vehicle over and give you a decent evaluation.
Do make the effort to have the car or truck seen by someone before you purchase.
