Buying a used car can have worthwhile advantages over buying a new car, but how do you determine what the best used car is? Buyers can typically save significant amounts of money when they buy used cars. However, buying a car used includes some additional risks over buying a new car, so use these 5 tips for buying the best used car to help you along the way:
Tip 1: Consider Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
Certified pre-owned vehicles can offer many of the same benefits as new cars while still maintaining their used car price. These vehicles usually include the remainder of any original manufacturer warranty, along with an additional extended warranty. These warranties may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. For example, GM's certified pre-owned vehicles include the remainder of the 5 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and also include additional 12 month/12,000 mile bumper-to-bumper coverage. Other manufacturers may have different warranties, such as Lexus, which offers a 3 year/100,000 mile warranty for its certified used cars. These cars are well maintained and are usually in very good condition. However, their price may be a bit higher than other used cars which are not certified pre-owned
Tip 2: Look for Remaining Manufacturer's Warranty
If the car that you are considering is not a certified pre-owned vehicle, you still want to try to inherit some remainder of the manufacturer's original warranty. Having the remainder of the manufacturer's original warranty can help insure the continued proper performance of the vehicle. Newer used cars typically have some years and miles left on the basic warranty, and they probably have even more years and miles left on the powertrain warranty (engine, transmission, etc).
Tip 3: Ask for the Car's Maintenance Record
When purchasing a used car, you want to have a good idea about its history. If the car you are considering includes a detailed maintenance record, it is likely that the car was well taken care of. Be sure to check that the car has not had any scary or unusual problems in the past. If a seller does not offer a car's maintenance record, it does not necessarily mean that the car is in bad condition. However, without a car's maintenance record, a prospective buyer should be a bit more cautious.
Tip 4: Use a 3rd Party Mechanic to Inspect the Car
When purchasing any used vehicle, it is always a good idea to have a 3rd party mechanic inspect the car. The mechanic can let you know if there are any issues or potential problems with the car that you should know about. It is especially important to have a mechanic check the car if it does not come with a maintenance record. If the seller refuses to let a 3rd party mechanic inspect the car as a condition of the sale, you should be leery of its condition.
Tip 5: Research the VIN
Get and use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to gain information about the vehicle's history. VIN's are most commonly located on the driver's side dashboard. Other locations include the driver's door jamb and the engine bay. You can then take the VIN and use reliable services such as Carfax and Autocheck to get a complete history of the vehicle (accidents, previous maintenance, ownership etc.).
Buying a used car can sometimes be a bit confusing and overwhelming. However, if you take your time and use these helpful tips, should have a comfortable and smooth experience buying a used car.
