In 2013, approximately 41,000,000 used cars were sold in the United States alone. The reasons for this were numerous: for example, there is usually a wider selection of used cars for sale than new cars, making it possible to find used cars that have features you are looking for at a price you can afford. Because of this, it is estimated that three out of every four car sales in the U.S. involve used cars. However, if you are interested in buying used cars, there are a number of important things to remember to help you find the best used cars for you. Before you sign the purchase paperwork, follow the tips below!
Check the Selection
Did you know that automatic transmissions outnumber manual ones 10 to one in the American used car market? Or that as many as 57% of all used vehicles for sale are sedans or compact cars? This can be great if you’re looking for a sedan with an automatic transmission, but less than encouraging if you really want a manual truck. Whatever you’re looking for, if you want to find used cars that will work for your lifestyle and budget, it can be extremely helpful to begin your process with an online search at Autozin. See what dealerships seem to have the greatest options that will work for you before you bring your search into the real world.
Study a Vehicle’s History
Once you think you’ve found “the one”, make sure you get a look at the vehicle’s history report. A great body repair shop can make even completely destroyed vehicles look like good used cars, and while this is great for their business and professional skill, it doesn’t help you as a driver. If you can’t find the VIN number or the dealership refuses to show you the vehicle history report, take it as a sign that you need to look at a different vehicle.
Research and Negotiate
Check to make sure that the price the dealership is asking is reasonable by comparing it to other cars of the same make, model, age, and quality. Over the course of your car search, it isn’t out of the ordinary to find used cars priced far above typical asking prices for similar vehicles. If this is the case, document your research and use it to try to negotiate a lower price. Even if the price remains as is, you may learn some interesting facts about your new car that can help you sell it in the future.
Used cars are a great, affordable option if you are searching for a vehicle that can take you through your daily life, as well as all of its unexpected detours. For this reason, the average car will typically have three owners over the course of its life. However, with the wide selection available, it can be difficult to know exactly where to start. Use these three easy tips to guide you, and you should be well on your way to finding the right used car for you!