Before you Buy Your Car: 8 Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car

The decision to buy a used car receives multiple benefits such as the value of this one that will always have a much lower investment, even in the formalities that must be carried out and the holding of this one in terms of insurance and taxes, unlike when it is a new one. However, when it comes to finding dealers to buy a used car, it is not an easy task. Here are the 10 most

common problems when buying a used car:

1. The Condition of the Vehicle

The condition of the vehicle will tell you all about the car. For instance, how it was treated, and maintained, and if the previous owners fixed the vehicle problems the proper way. For example, if you notice a flaw in the paint that looks like a cheap job, I would run from that vehicle. In contrast, if the owner has been in an accident and he is upfront and tells you but it is hard for you to identify a flaw in the paint. Then, I will continue to look into the car.

Additionally, touch the paint. Does it feel rough? Do you see contamination, stains on the paint, or overspray? In my opinion, a vehicle’s paint that has not been well maintained could be worse than a vehicle that has not been mechanically maintained from a cost to repair point of view. For instance, a mechanical tune-up fixing several issues on a vehicle may cost you between $600 and $10,000 on average. However, a new paint job at a reputable body shop could cost you between $10,000 and 30,000 plus. Therefore, pay close attention to the condition of the paint of the vehicle.

2. Car Fax history

Although it will cost you some money, it is well worth it if the vehicle conditions meet your expectations. Furthermore, the accident history of the vehicle and other legal matters will give you a negotiating tool you would not have otherwise. Moreover, when you know that the vehicle has been in one accident or several. Perhaps, you will be able to show fewer emotions about the car you’ve always wanted that is in excellent shape. You can still buy a car that has been in an accident. However, If the deal does not go through, you will be okay because now you know the car has been in an accident and you could find a better one.

3. Choose a Good Brand

Have an advisor who will provide information on the brand of the used car according to the need, quality, and performance requested. Moreover, do some research on the specific vehicle you are buying. Read some reviews. Additionally, find its common mechanical issues. This will take you less than ten minutes. Moreover, you could do this from your phone. Moreover, it would not be a bad idea to become a member of https://www.consumerreports.org/since your vehicle may be your second largest investment.

4. Check As Much As You Can:

Sometimes, I have to check the condition of a vehicle: seats, paint, belts, doors, directional lights, front, state of the mats, etc. Because the seller does not say it for fear of losing a sale, as these are indications of the driver that has had the used car. However, normal wear and tear should not stop you from making a deal on a car. To further explain, most vehicles will have some issues the sellers did not know how to clean. In addition, there could be damage due to bad quality of materials that will be common on that specific type of vehicle.

5. Reliability and Safety

As important as appearance, safety is easier to check but a step you cannot skip. First, check if all the lights work properly. Second, check the car has a proper honking noise. Third, check the breaks, and brake fluid, and listen up for any brake noise.

6. Good Prices

When you decide to buy a used car, see how the market is. Check for the car’s value on more than one value site. To name a few, kbb.com, edmunds.com, and nada.com. Sometimes, when you decide to buy a car, it may not be the best time to buy the car. Also, buy used cars in cash. The price will always increase if you have to pay dealer fees and interest rates.

7. History of the vehicle:

Rarely, it is known with certainty of a crash or some major repair that the previous owners performed and that may affect its operation.

8. Mileage

Most people give mileage too much importance. While I use this in my favor when I buy a car, it will never be a deal-breaker if I see the car is well maintained. For example, I would buy a five-year-old Honda Accord with a paint protection film on the front and flawless paint with 200K miles for more money than I would buy the same car with 55K miles and bug damage and faded paint. Therefore, more than the mileage, ask yourself, is it in good condition? Has the maintenance record shown proper maintenance or do you have to guess if the brakes will need to change soon? Do you feel any vibration?

Picture Credits

Car inspection photo created by standret – www.freepik.com