Tips for Buying a Used Car
When purchasing a used car, it can be hard to know whether you’re getting your money’s worth. Plus, there are other factors to consider when purchasing used that aren’t present when buying new. Landers Chevrolet Cadillac of Joplin, MO wants to share six key tips for buying a used car. It’s always best to be an informed consumer and we at Landers want you to have the best experience when possible.
- SET A BUDGET YOU CAN AFFORD: Be realistic with your budget and know what you can afford, but also consider the total cost of owning the vehicle. Take into account the interest on your car loan if you’re not paying cash. There is also the cost of insurance for the new-to-you-ride and may change a bit due to the year and type of pre-owned vehicle you purchase.
- FINDING THE RIGHT ONE: The place to start your pre-owned vehicle-buying venture, if you haven’t decided what make or model or trim is best for you, is with researching used car rankings and reviews on Kelley Blue Book or Autotrader. Research information such as safety, reliability, and total cost of ownership. Then compare predicted reliability, safety, performance, and interior comfort and features. Also, consider not only the size and performance of the vehicles on your list, but also their fuel economy.
- CONSIDER BUYING CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED: It can be iffy when purchasing a used vehicle without any warranty coverage. Certified pre-owned cars offer a blend of affordability with manufacturer-backed warranty coverage. They’re low-mileage cars that are just a few years old, with service records and no history of accidents. They’re usually cars returned at the end of leases, dealership loaner vehicles, or demo vehicles that are driven by dealer staff.
- FIND AFFORDABLE FINANCING: Like most used car buyers, you’ll need a loan to help purchase your used vehicle. You can have the dealership’s finance office arrange your financing, or you can get a pre-approved financing offer beforehand. At Landers Chevrolet Cadillac we may be able to beat your pre-approved loan because we check with many lenders to get you the best deal possible.
- FINANCIALLY PREPARED: Review your credit score and credit reports behind your credit rating before you start shopping. If you have the time, this will give you the opportunity to correct any errors and improve on any weak areas in your credit history.
- FINDING THE PERFECT RIDE: When you find the used car you want, learn as much as you can about it. Get the vehicle’s history report, take a test drive, and, if you can, have it inspected by an independent mechanic to ensure that it’s mechanically sound.
We hope this was helpful! When beginning your used-car-buying journey, we at Landers Chevrolet Cadillac in Joplin, MO hope to assist you in. We offer a quality selection of used vehicles from sporty sedans and a range of SUVs to light-duty and heavy-duty rugged trucks. Stop by, take a look and a test drive, and find your next vehicle here at Landers.
2 comment(s) so far on Tips for Buying a Used Car
I like your car tips. I need to get a used car. I’ll have to go to a dealership.
Thanks, Tex!
We can do most of the buying process over the phone or via text and/or email so there’s minimal time spent at the dealership if you’d like. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, you can fill out our Online Vehicle Finder tool. We’d love to help!