9 secrets to know when buying a used car

For some people, the thought of buying a used car brings up a bit of panic and anxiety. How do you know if you’re over-paying? What if it breaks down when you drive it off the lot? The process can be much easier if you follow a few important steps and find a car dealer you can trust.

1. Know what you need

Before you start shopping, figure out exactly what you need a vehicle to do such as hauling children, getting good mileage, having all-wheel drive, etc. Then make a list of features you want: tow package, leather seats or a hatchback. That should help eliminate many vehicles that don’t match your list.

2. Research

The Federal Trade Commission advises consumers to research the frequency of repairs, maintenance costs and recalls on the models you might be considering. You can also check the U.S. Department of Transportation’s website for information on recalls. Before buying a car, make sure to ask the dealer for information showing that all recall issues were repaired and corrected.

3. Don’t stretch your budget

Know what you can afford and be firm about staying under that price. Remember, there are going to be additional costs like registration, taxes, dealer fees, etc. These extras can add 10 percent or so to the cost of the car.

Kelley Blue Book  advises: “Leave yourself some wiggle room and shop for a less flashy vehicle with lower mileage or an older one in tip-top shape. You wouldn’t want to buy the car of your dreams only to have it drain your bank account because you didn’t factor in all of the costs of ownership.”

4. And more research

Once you’ve narrowed your list to a few specific vehicles, you can fine-tune your research to check for issues with those specific cars. You can use resources like Kelly Blue Book, Edmunds.com or Nadaguides.com to read reviews and determine an approximate market value for the cars you are considering. You can also ask to see a Carfax report to learn about the vehicle’s service, repair and ownership history.

5. Test and inspect

Give the car a thorough test drive, including simulating the types of driving conditions you encounter most. Make sure everything works, including the four-wheel drive, air conditioning, heater, power windows and seats, sound system and more. If possible, take it to a mechanic and let him inspect the car.

6. Opt for the warranty

An extended warranty is an insurance policy protecting you when you are buying a used car. Repairing an engine or a transmission can easily cost $6,000 or more. If you don’t have ready access to that kind of cash, paying the extra cost to have a warranty makes good sense, and it buys you peace of mind.

7. Avoid private-party sales

You might get a better deal than you could get at a dealership. It is also possible that you could get scammed, in which case you have no recourse. Some dealers offer short-term, no-regrets warranties on used cars, and you can almost always purchase an extended warranty. If you feel like a dealer has treated you unfairly, you can file a complaint and chances are, the dealer will try to make you happy. Not so with a guy you met from an online classified.

8. Check your insurance

This is another cost of ownership that some people overlook when they buy a car. Talk with your agent and find out how the new vehicle will affect your insurance rates. Make sure and factor that in when you set your budget.

9. Hold your ground

Thomas Bey from thecarconnection.com explains, “You don’t have to get intense with negotiating, but stick within the range you’re willing to spend. If that’s not going to your satisfaction, stay cool and acknowledge the impasse. At least you won’t have been pressured into accepting a disagreeable offer.”

About Az Auto King 

Auto King presents quality pre-owned cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans to the Greater Phoenix  area car. With several years experience in the auto industry Daniel Gutierrez wanted to give Phoenix car buyers a different buying experience. One where customer service has meaning and sales teams provide guidance in buying the right vehicle at the price right. Auto King has a full service department and collision center, including windshield repair/replacement. We also accept insurance claims in our collision center. Auto King – A New Experience in Car Buying.

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