In the Market for a Used Vehicle? Keep These Five Tips in Mind

There are many advantages to purchasing a used vehicle. Some of these advantages include the consistent value of the vehicle, the reduced cost, and the certified warranty that is sometimes offered by the auto dealer. There are likely many used cars for sale in your city, so how do you choose the right one? These buying tips will help you smartly shop for a used vehicle and ensure that you get the best deal.

Create a buying plan ahead of time

It can be risky to head to an auto dealership without a buying plan in mind. You might be tempted to purchase the first vehicle you see, whether or not it fits with your budget or driving needs. You also might be pushed to make a buying decision faster than you feel comfortable. Before ever stepping foot into a local dealership, create a buying plan ahead of time. This buying plan should include your budget, the type of vehicle you desire, and any required specific characteristics of the vehicle. Some examples of required characteristics might be Bluetooth capability or all wheel drive.

Research local dealerships

Once you have a vehicle in mind, you will want to research local used cars for sale. Many dealerships list their entire inventory online, so you can see what is offered before heading there in person. If you are in the market for used Fords, for example, you will want to find a dealership that has used Ford vehicles on the lot. If you find a couple of vehicles that you might be interested in, create a list of them and make it a point to see all of them. Avoid impulsive buying and leave your paperwork at home. You will be forced to go home and think about a purchase before making it.

Shop for certified used vehicles

A certified used vehicle can be a lifesaver. Many dealerships offer certified sales to increase buyer incentive. In 2016 alone, certified pre owned sales reached a record of 2.6 million units. When you buy used cars for sale, you are buying something that you do not know the previous history of. A certified sale ensures that you are protected. You don?t want to spend thousands of dollars on a used vehicle to get home and have the engine or transmission blow up within a couple of weeks. With a certified vehicle purchase, these major repairs are covered. When possible, always shop for certified used cars for sale.

Bring your own mechanic

Most dealerships will also allow you to do a full inspection on the vehicle before purchasing it. If you have any mechanical friends, bring them with you to fully inspect everything under the hood. If you don?t know anyone mechanically inclined, some repair shops will offer their inspection services for a small fee. This inspection can help you purchase used vehicles that are in good shape and prevent you from buying a money pit. The average vehicle will have three owners in its lifetime. This is a long history of the unknown and a full mechanical inspection can make some of that ownership clear.

Be willing to walk away from a sale

It is also useful to be willing to walk away from a sale. You and the salesman may not be able to come to an agreement. If the vehicle is over your previously planned budget or they will not allow you to inspect the vehicle, it might be time to walk away. If the dealership also will not offer certified car sales, you might decide that it is not a smart purchase. Never feel forced to purchase a used vehicle.

Used car sales are on the increase. Between dealership and private party transactions, nearly 40 million used cars exchange hands each year. Buying a used vehicle can be a very smart financial decision, as long as the necessary research goes into the process. Never feel pressured to purchase and never rush the used car purchase.