We’ve all been there. Your car is out of commission, and if you’re like almost everyone else in the world, you need some form of transportation. As a result, you need a car and you likely need it fast, but you can’t afford something brand new.
However, the last thing you want is to start your engine and find out what you purchased is a hunk of junk or doesn’t live up to your expectations. To help you make sure you find a car that meets your needs and your budget, we’ll take a close look at what to consider before purchasing a new vehicle.
Know Your Budget
First things first, you need to know how much you’re willing to spend. Take a good, hard look at your finances and determine a realistic budget. Remember that it’s not just the purchase price you need to think about. There are also costs for insurance, registration, and possible repairs.
It’s a good idea to leave a little wiggle room for those unexpected expenses that always seem to pop up. Once you’ve got a firm number in mind, stick to it. This will make it much easier when you start shopping around.
Check the Vehicle’s History Report
Before you think about taking a used car for a test drive, make sure to check its history report. This report will tell you important details about the car, such as previous accidents, ownership history, and whether it’s been in any floods or has a salvage title.
You can obtain this report through services like Carfax or AutoCheck. It’s a small step that can save you from a big headache down the road. Knowing the car’s history helps you make an informed decision and avoid any hidden surprises.
Look for Visible Damage
When you’re inspecting a used car, take your time to look for any visible damage. While a used vehicle will likely have some sort of damage, it shouldn’t have any gaping holes or serious dents. While you’re checking for dents, scratches, or rust, open and close all the doors, the trunk, and the hood to ensure they function properly. Don’t forget to examine the tires for tread wear and ensure they match.
A mismatched set of tires can be a red flag for uneven wear, indicating alignment issues or poor maintenance. It’s also a good idea to check the condition of the seats and the interior for any tears or stains. This may seem like a minor thing, but it can give you an idea of how well the previous owner took care of the car.
Have a Mechanic Inspect It
Even if everything looks great on the surface, it’s always a good idea to have a professional mechanic inspect the used car before making a purchase. Mechanics can spot issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye. They can check for any mechanical problems, like engine or transmission issues, and ensure that all the vital systems are functioning properly.
This might cost you a little extra upfront, but it can save you from expensive repairs later on. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing you’re making a sound investment. If the seller hesitates or refuses to let you have the car inspected, consider it a red flag and walk away.
Take a Test Drive
Once you’ve done all your homework, one of the most important things to consider before purchasing a used vehicle is how it feels to drive. So it’s time to get behind that wheel! You’ll want to spend at least 30 minutes driving the car in various conditions, such as going uphill, downhill, and through traffic. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, and handles.
Additionally, turn off the radio and listen for any unusual sounds. Test out all the features, like the air conditioning, heating, and any tech options. Drive on different road surfaces to see how the suspension feels. If anything feels off or you’re not comfortable, it’s okay to move on to another option.
Research the Ownership Costs
Alright, you’ve done your test drive, and everything checks out. But before you get too excited, it’s time to crunch some numbers. Look into the ownership costs for the vehicle you’re considering. This includes fuel efficiency, routine maintenance, and repairs. Some cars are known for being more reliable and cheaper to maintain, while others might cost you an arm and a leg just for an oil change.
Do some research on how much you’ll be spending yearly on these things. You can usually find this information online or by asking current owners in forums. Knowing the ongoing costs will help you avoid any nasty surprises and ensure the car fits within your budget in the long run.
Find Out the Fair Market Value
Now that you’ve done your due diligence, the next step is figuring out the fair market value of the car you’re considering. This will help you avoid overpaying, especially if you’ve found a car on a public forum like Facebook Marketplace. Websites like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and NADA Guides are excellent resources for getting an estimate.
Simply input the car’s make, model, year, mileage, and condition, and you’ll get a ballpark figure of what the car is worth. Keep this number in mind when negotiating the price. Knowledge is power—going into negotiations armed with this information gives you an advantage. If the seller’s asking price is way above what you’ve found, don’t hesitate to bring it up and negotiate for a better deal.
Check for Recalls and Service Bulletins
Before you sign on the dotted line, check for any recalls or service bulletins related to the car you’re interested in. Recalls happen when the manufacturer identifies a defect or safety issue that needs to be fixed, and service bulletins provide information on less urgent issues or updates.
You can easily check this information on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or by entering the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the manufacturer’s site. This step ensures that you’re aware of any potential problems and can address them before they become major inconveniences. Plus, it’s always nice to know that your vehicle has a clean bill of health.
Verify Ownership and Title Status
Before you finalize your purchase, you need to verify the ownership and title status. This is a crucial step to ensure that the car isn’t stolen or that there aren’t any outstanding loans against it. Ask the seller for the title and make sure it matches their name.
You can also use the DMV or online title check services to confirm this information. If there are any discrepancies, walk away. Buying a car with a clean title ensures you’re not inheriting any legal headaches or financial obligations.
The good news is that, at Warner INEOS Grenadier, you don’t have to worry about conducting copious research and background checks. As a used vehicle dealership in West Valley, Utah, we’re intimately familiar with the health of our vehicles and can provide you with all the information and resources you need to make an informed decision. We understand that purchasing a used car can be stressful, and we’re here to alleviate that burden by offering top-quality vehicles at competitive prices.