Things to Look For When Buying a Pre-Owned Car
Pre-owned cars are the first choice of many car buyers. If a pre-owned car is in the right condition, it can be an incredible bargain at the dealership. Some people may feel there is some inherent risk in buying used cars. They are not entirely wrong. Every pre-owned car has a vehicle history, and there’s a chance of hidden problems at some dealerships.
Thankfully, most reputable dealers work hard to make sure every pre-owned car on their lot is in peak condition. But it’s still safe to do your homework when buying pre-owned cars. Here are some of the most important things to look for when buying used cars.
What to Look for When Buying Used Cars
Vehicle History
A used car’s vehicle history is usually the first thing you want to check out. This means its mileage, as well as accident and maintenance history. A car’s mileage will tell you a lot about how much wear and tear is on the vehicle. Low mileage can sometimes mean better condition. More importantly, low mileage often means a longer remaining life for the vehicle.
Maintenance history is also important because it informs you what, if any, damage the car has incurred. It also helps to know what kind of work has been done, and if any major repairs have been needed.
Tires
It’s very easy to overlook, but fresh, high-quality tires can be important on a used vehicle. If you buy a used car with worn tires, that’s something you’ll just end up replacing before long. Inspect the tread and air pressure of the car’s tires before buying. To be safe, you should check to make sure the car is equipped with the right size tires as well.
Interior
The outside of the car will attract your attention out on the lot. But you want to make sure it looks good inside too. Is the upholstery in good condition? Do all the electronics work properly? Are there any stains, odors, or interior damage to be concerned about?
Glass
A reputable dealer should replace any damaged windows or windshields before putting a used car up for sale. But it still does not hurt to check all the glass for cracks or damages. If something as noticeable as a cracked windshield can be found, it’s possible more serious problems are lurking.
Body
Rust, dents, and new paint jobs can all be signs of past damage. A fresh coat of paint is not a big concern on its own. But numerous dents, spotty paint, and other visible damage can be a bad sign. You should also inspect the vehicle to make sure the car is sitting level on a flat surface. If the car seems uneven or lopsided, it could be indicative of suspension or tire problems.
Performance
Always take pre-owned cars for a test drive if possible. This gives you a chance to see how it performs on the road. Pay attention to handling, braking, and acceleration. Make sure the car feels comfortable and, more importantly, safe on the road.
Price
Last but not least, does the price on the sticker match the market price for the vehicle? Pricing for used cars can be tricky. Make, model, year, and vehicle history all factor into the price of used cars. Do your research and make sure you’re getting a fair deal when buying used.