When you're searching for your next vehicle, a used car dealership can be a good option. It allows you to get a newer car for less than you’d pay to buy a new one.
However, some people feel apprehensive about purchasing previously owned vehicles from used car lots. You might worry about dealers hiding problems or flaws with the cars they sell.
Thankfully, there are tried and true steps you can take that will give you confidence in your purchase. By equipping yourself with knowledge, taking the right precautions, and asking the right questions, you’ll feel far more secure knowing you found a reliable pre-owned vehicle.
Do Thorough Research on Models, Prices, and Options
Before ever stepping onto a used car dealership lot, be sure to do extensive research on different models, pricing, and available options. This will help you identify the best choices.
A. Research Reliability of Different Models and Years
Check consumer sites about repair issues, recalls, complaints
Focus research on 2-3 models that fit needs and have good ratings
Note differences in reliability between model years
B. Evaluate Fair Purchase Prices
Use Kelley Blue Book and other pricing guides to estimate values
Input factors like mileage, condition, and features to get an accurate price range
Compare prices listed at multiple used car dealership listings online
C. Make Must-Have and Nice-to-Have Features Lists
Decide if you require AWD, infotainment packages, spacious cargo areas
Nice-to-haves may include sunroofs, leather seats, device chargers
Research invoice pricing for feature additions to inform negotiations
Doing this advanced homework allows you to zero in on the ideal used vehicles for your budget and needs. You also save time by skipping over models with poor reliability or overpriced options. This preparation sets you up to feel far more secure about purchases from used car dealership lots.
Get a Vehicle History Report and Inspect Maintenance Records
Before buying a used car, it’s critical to get the full history of that specific vehicle so you know what it has been through. This will reveal any past problems.
A. Purchase the Vehicle History Report
Use the vehicle identification number to access history online or through the dealership
Review reports like CARFAX for important details on issues
Look for major accidents, flood damage, salvage titles
B. Thoroughly Inspect Maintenance Records
Ask the dealer for all service records they have on the vehicle
Cross-reference VHR information with maintenance logs from previous owners
Note any gaps in servicing or issues reported
C. Have an Independent Mechanic Conduct an Inspection
Hire a trusted mechanic to do a pre-purchase inspection
They will use diagnostics to assess issues not visible underneath
This will catch any problems the dealer missed or did not disclose
Checking this critical background information on where the car has been and how it was serviced allows you to either verify claims from the dealer or uncover issues they may have glossed over. This protects against buying unreliable vehicles with hidden problems from used dealership lots.
Take an Extensive Test Drive to Assess Performance
When evaluating any of the used cars for sale on a dealership lot, you must take them for comprehensive test drives yourself. This allows you to gauge how the vehicle handles and identify issues that may not be obvious when the car is parked.
A. Assess Acceleration and Responsiveness
Test acceleration from full stops at different speeds
See how smoothly it switches gears and picks up speed
Make sharp and smooth turns to evaluate steering responsiveness
B. Listen Closely for Any Odd Noises
Be attentive to the sounds coming from the engine and other components
Make note of any rattling, grinding or squeaking sounds
Have a passenger listen while you drive if possible
C. Pay Attention to Small Issues Too
Note if lights or electronics act unusual even briefly
Make sure features like wipers, radio and seat adjustments function
Assess brake feel and performance through hard, smooth stops
Carefully testing driving dynamics, electronics, and brake systems and listening for problematic noises can alert you to mechanical issues the dealer may have not addressed. Comprehensive test drives build confidence in the true operational condition of vehicles.
Review Financing Terms and Warranties Carefully
When buying a used car from a dealership, one of the final steps will be going over your financing options. Consider extended warranty choices if desired.
It’s critical not to gloss over this paperwork in your haste to drive home your new vehicle. Taking the time to understand the financing terms and warranties can prevent regrets down the road.
Ensure to check current financing rates at your bank or credit union before agreeing to dealer financing. Even if they promote low rates, you may find better annual percentage rates via third-party lending. Calculate total costs over the loan term with any upfront fees rolled in.
If opting for dealership financing, read all terms carefully. Confirm if any advertised rates apply specifically to used car purchases, which sometimes differ.
Ask the used car dealership about extending the manufacturer’s warranty through them or a third-party company. While this adds cost, it may give you peace of mind to have major components covered for repairs.
Be sure to distinguish between warranties that simply continue existing terms compared to those providing enhanced coverage. Confirm any warranty transfers if you sell the vehicle down the road.
Doing due diligence on the back-end paperwork ensures you don’t negate all your upfront research by overpaying on loans or service plans from used car dealers.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a used vehicle is a major investment. So, it’s natural to feel apprehensive about getting a reliable car that fits your needs and budget.
However, by taking the right precautions, doing thorough research, taking extensive test drives, understanding warranties, and evaluating financing, you can feel confident in your purchase.
While buying from a used car dealer does require diligence on the buyer’s part, taking some of these tried and tested steps can make your purchase worthwhile.
Staying informed and vigilant removes uncertainty and doubt from the used car buying experience. If you are looking for a used car dealership in Wales, be sure to keep the above steps in mind to make a safe purchase.
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