5 Questions You Need to Ask if You Are Looking to Buy a Used Car

In the U.S., sales of used cars have increased exponentially. Given that buying a used car can help one save a lot of money, it’s an appealing option to many car buyers. But, before you zero-in on a used car, you need to ask yourself the following questions.

Where Do I Buy a Used Car From?

There are several used car dealer showrooms, and visits to these places can prove useful. You get to see a variety of cars at different price bands with all the necessary technical information. But, many used car sales happen through word-of-mouth communication. So, it would help if you put in a word among your contacts.

Does the Car Have to Be Certified Pre-Owned?

When a used car is certified pre-owned, also known as CPO, you are guaranteed that the car has been inspected and refurbished to meet the manufacturer’s standards. Of course, this would make a CPO car more expensive, so be prepared to pay slightly more if you want a CPO car.

How Much Should I Spend on the Car?

The cost of used cars varies constantly. Since there is now a surge in demand, the prices for used cars are on the higher side. Also, production levels of new vehicles have seen a plunge due to the pandemic. Before you start looking at used cars, you should figure out how much you can spend. Also, look at different financing plans and get yourself pre-approved, with your bank or your local credit union. This will help you decide how much you can afford.

How Do I Ensure the Car Is Safe to Drive?

There are three points to consider to ensure that a used car is safe to drive:

Vehicle History: This will give you information on how many people have owned the car before, how many accidents it’s been involved in, and if it has an open recall. A car with an open recall indicates there is an issue that hasn’t been rectified.

Get an independent inspection: Choose a mechanic you know and get the car checked thoroughly.

Go for a test drive: This will help you determine if the car is a good fit.

How Do I Avoid Common Mistakes People Make When Buying a Used Car?

It’s a good idea to check the past look, make, and model to know if the car is a good option, and also check the number of owners, miles are driven, and accident history. Just ensure you don’t get caught up in all the flashy specs and features!