If you or your teenager is interested in buying a used car, you may be feeling a little apprehensive. Where do you begin? How do you know if they vehicle you are purchasing is in good shape? There are certainly a number of things to consider when purchasing a car. If you follow the tips we put together and do your research, you should be able to locate and purchase a used vehicle that is safe and reliable.
- Know what you want to purchase before you begin your search. Deciding on the make and model will help narrow down your search criteria. If you are buying a used car for your son or daughter, you may quickly realize their idea of a vehicle is different than yours. Having a budget in mind along with the features you want in the car will go a long way in helping with the selection process. To assist you, take a look at websites like Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com) and Edmunds (Edmunds.com).
- Conduct on-line research to identify the average repair and maintenance costs for the particular vehicle make and model you are considering. Oftentimes, these searches will give you an idea on the common types of repair issues for this particular year, make and model. For example, your desired vehicle may have more incidences of engine oil leaks or transmission problems.
- Once the basic research is complete, it’s time to start your vehicle search. Check local dealers, online sources (like cars.com and eBay Motors), and local classified advertising. Don’t forget to give us a call, too! Some of our customers may be selling their vehicle and it would be the perfect match for you or your teen driver.
- Bring a “Used Car Buying Checklist” with you when looking at vehicles. Nationwide has a helpful checklist on their website you can access here: https://blog.nationwide.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/UsedCarChecklist1.pdf.
- Take the vehicle for a test drive. Drive it in as many conditions as you can – city and highway. Don’t rush through the test drive. Take your time to assess the steering wheel alignment, suspension, brakes, windshield wipers, air conditioning, heating, lights, etc. How does the vehicle handle? Does the steering feel tight or loose? Are the brakes working well? How much tread is left on the tires? Note anything that may be of concern to you.
- Ask to see copies of the service and repair records for the vehicle. You want to make sure you are buying a used car that has been well-maintained.Check to make sure the owner has kept up with regular maintenance like oil, fluid and filter changes. Has all the minor and major maintenance required by the manufacturer been done? When were the brakes replaced?
- Visit recalls.gov, and using the VIN number for the vehicle, search for any old or open recalls.
- Go to Carfax.com and order a report that will provide you with detailed information on the vehicle registration. A Carfax Report will give you important data on whether the vehicle’s title is listed as salvaged or junked from a flood. It will also identify whether or not the vehicle was involved in an accident and incurred frame or structural damage.
- Once you finish your research and settle on the vehicle you want to purchase, before making an offer, have it inspected by an independent auto repair shop, like Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, New Jersey. Our ASE-certified technicians will inspect all the major engine systems to let you know if there is anything that will need to be replaced in the near future. Taking this final step will also allow you to make a more informed offer on the vehicle. Click here to schedule your pre-purchase inspection now.
Good luck with your vehicle search. After purchasing your new vehicle, we hope you will bring it to our auto repair shop in Verona, NJ, for all your auto repair and maintenance needs.