Checklist For What To Look For When Buying a Used Car

 When it comes time to purchase a used car, you need to be keenly aware of what you need and what the dealership offers. Some vehicles can be 15 years old and run perfectly fine, while others can be half that age and break down regularly. Keep in mind this checklist for what to look for when buying a used car to make sure you don’t drive off the lot with a two-ton piece of scrap metal.

Know What You’re Looking For

Do some research beforehand on makes and models that are reliable and sturdy. Take note of their condition and the price that other dealerships are asking for; having this ready can help you negotiate a better price if you can find it cheaper somewhere else. This will also help narrow down your search. Instead of having an overwhelming selection to choose from, you’ll have a handful of vehicles in mind already.

Get a History of the Car

When you spot a car that you’re interested in, ask the dealer about its history. See if it’s been in any previous car crashes or had major repairs done, and ask how many miles are on the engine. Every little piece of information you gather will inform your decision to help you determine whether it’s suitable to drive or not.

Inspect the Condition

The vehicle’s history can’t tell you everything you need to know; you’ll need to take it for a test drive to get a feel for how it handles. Pay attention to any creaking, grinding, or high-pitched noises while driving, and see how the suspension system handles minor potholes. Try to feel for any types of vibrations while driving as well; it could be a sign that the drive shaft is failing, which is an exceedingly expensive repair job.

Stick To Your Budget

When you walk into the dealership, have a price range you’re sticking to and stop yourself from going above that. A vehicle’s primary purpose is to get you from point A to point B; paying for unnecessary additions or luxury options will only deplete your bank account for vital gain. Going over budget and spending more than what you’re comfortable with can affect you later down the line, whether that’s lacking the funds for repairs or dealing with high car loan payments.

Don’t Be Afraid To Shop Around

When you go to a dealership, don’t feel obligated to drive off with just any car. Give yourself time to shop around and consider your options before committing to something you may be unsure about. But wherever you go to look at cars, always keep in mind this list of things to look for in a used car; you don’t want to spend thousands on something that’ll break down in a year or two.