Buying a used car poses more difficulties than just buying a brand new car. While there are basic common things to look out for in buying a used car irrespective of where you are residing or in whatever country you are in, there are some specific things that relate to buying a used car.
Before you actually venture out to buy a used car, it is important for you to gather the necessary information to allow you to make a wise decision.
First, you need to know your specific needs, and what sort of used car you are going to buy, so that you can arrange for the financing or cost of the car- in essense, can you afford to buy the car? Remember that apart from this initial cost, there are related costs of getting the car on the road such as car insurance, car inspection and road worthy certificate issuance, fees for transfer of registration and so on.
One prime consideration that impacts on the price of the used car is the age of the car. So your will be looking at the age of the car with respect to the price you can afford to buy. You will also be looking at the power of the car, whether you need a 4 cylinders, 6 cylinders or an 8 cylinders engine. This is important because if you are an outgoing, you might want to use the car to tow a caravan or a boat.
The engine, accessories and car type will not only affect the power of the car, but the consumption and performance, and when you are buying a used car, the performance might not be in the top condition. So these are factors to consider initially.
Used car dealers provide different warranties which are tied with the price of the car and the make of the car.There is no warranty when you buy a used car from a private seller, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you are happy with the performance and handling of the car on the road before you buy. So you should test drive the car before you buy if possible.
The seller should show you a current registration certificate and a certificate of vehicle safety. It will be wise for you to check that there is no money oweing on the car and to do that you can check with the register of encumbered vehicles(REV) service. Get a signed receipt of payment when you pay for the car.
Tips and Tricks to Buy a Used Car
Tips For Buying A Used CarBuying a car is one of the largest investments many people make in their lives-and more and more, people are bypassing new cars for used models. In fact, used cars have become big business in the U.S. and today, consumers have choices that stretch beyond the big lots and dealerships.
Just remember that when you're buying a car-new or used-it's important to get the facts first. Doing so can help you be more certain you're actually getting the car you want at the price that's right.
Buyers should be sure to consider all the angles-from mileage, model and vehicle history, to warranties and financing.
12 Tips and Tricks to Buy a Used Car
A person who cannot afford to buy a new car can always move ahead and buy a used car. Buying a car no doubts requires a lot of money but that does not mean that only rich can buy it. Always remember the success of buying a used car is to do your research before you buy it. You will have to prepare yourself for all the stress if you are looking for a perfect deal. Make sure that you are with the best used car dealer who will ensure you the best deal.
You need to go through the following information before buying a used car.
- Always decide the budget you can afford to buy the car. Since you are buying the used car always include price of the Car, repairs and maintenance cost of the car, Car insurance and so on.
- Decide the Car you would like to buy. The best option would be to go for a mid-sized car as these cars are available at great bargains.
- Used cars may be covered by a manufacturer's warranty or a separately purchased service contract. However note that they may not be transferable. Always make sure to go through the warranty or service contract before you buy any used cars.
- You can also take a test drive of the car and check its efficiency and comfort. It would be more preferable if you take a test drive on different types of roads. Have a drive for at least 10 to 15 miles to ensure the smoothness of the car.
- Take a serious test drive. Test the acceleration and give the brakes a workout. Make sure the steering wheel doesn't wander from left to right or shake. Drive up and down hills, down highways and through stop-and-go traffic.
- Find out how old is the car you are going to buy. Try to buy a car which is two or three years older. Buying a two or three years older car would probably be a great deal as this will give you an opportunity to drive the latest model. It would be asking for trouble if you decide to go for a much older car.
- If you are not 100% satisfied by the car avoid buying it. Don't just buy a car since it is cheap as this might turn into a big expense in the long term.
- It would be advisable to get the car inspected by the mechanic you hire. If you neglect it, you will have to pay everything for the maintenance once you buy the car. A mechanic can put the car on the lift and can immediately identify any previous damages, corrosions and so on.
- If you are buying a 4 to 5 year old car it would be advisable to get the warranty period extended. Else you will have to bear the brunt of heavy losses.
- Every dealer has a price in mind below which they will not sell you the car. The dealer is ready to reduce the price of the car till this price point and yet manages a decent profit. However if they find a particular buyer inexperienced they take advantage of such buyers and gladly make a very good profit. Hence it is very important to educate yourself thoroughly before going to a car dealer.
- Check the vehicle history report. Before you drive across town to see the car you’re interested in, run a vehicle history report. Using the vehicle identification number (VIN), you can get a detailed report of the car’s history from Carfax or AutoCheck. It’s a quick way to know if you should seriously consider buying this car.
- Before taking ownership of the car, you should add it to your insurance policy. Then, you only need to pay for the car — usually with cash or a cashier’s check. Make sure you get a title and have the seller sign it correctly. When in doubt, check the state’s registry website for more information. Most states allow about 10 days to register the car in your name.
- When financing, beware of advertisements offering tempting deals to folks with bad credit or first-time buyers. Find out the exact price you're paying for the vehicle, the amount you're financing, the finance charge, the APR and how many payments you're up against.
At the end of the day, if you have done your research, you will know what vehicle is the best value for you regardless of whether the vehicle was discounted or not.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If a vehicle is priced considerably below other similar vehicles in the market, there is a likely a good reason for it. Make sure that you understand why before going ahead.
That’s it! You are now ready to buy a great used car, get a great deal, and buy a car that you won’t regret.
