How to Find a Used Car
When shopping for a vehicle, deciding which make and model to look for, and where to look can be an overwhelming task. There are many types of vehicles and there are many sources to go to. If you do research, make comparisons, and have a clear mission, you will be in good shape. Prices can vary greatly on a used car, but so can the quality. To begin your search for a used car, look online, in the local classifieds, or in dealer's ads. Always have a few models up for consideration, as you will be in a stronger position when it comes time to bargain. Think about your driving habits, your needs, and your budget when selceting the models of vehicles.
Narrowing Your Choices
Financing
Dealer financing and bank financing are the two options if you have to borrow money for the used car. Shop around for who will give you the best loans, and go from there. Also be aware of how much insurance will cost for this model, you can check with your insurance company for a quote.
Vehicle Value
Look online and in local ads to see how much you should be paying for this model. You should look for a car in decent condition at a reasonable price, instead of going for the lowest priced. You will save in the long run on repairs and will have less doubts of breaking down.
Budget
Set a clear limit of how much money you want to pay for the used car, and be firm. Don't assume 'low' monthly payments will mean a lower priced vehicle, so keep focused on the overall price. A $10,000-$18,000price tag is towards the top of used car prices. This will bring a modern car, just a few years old. A used car in this range should be mainly trouble free for a while. The $4000-$9000 price range would get you a reliable used car, it may be an older style with high mileage, but suitable for everyday use. Used Car Dealers may delve into this range, as well as private and online sales. For a price range of $1000-$2000 expect to get an older vehicle, it may run, but may have other issues such as rust or engine troubles. Dealers usually don't spend time selling vehicles in this price range, so these would be found through private sales.
Model Selection
Recognize your needs, such as passenger and cargo space, when selecting a model. Narrow your choices of as much as possible, but keep a few options in mind. Pay attention to things such a visibility, comfort, and safety features. It is best to enter a dealership knowing what you want, as this will make the whole process much easier.
Research Specifics
Use the used car's VIN number to run a CARFAX history report on it. This could turn up any flood damage or salvage work. Talk to as many people as possible about their personal experiences with this model. The internet is a great place to find reviews, both from experts and consumers.
Where to Look
Private Parties
Going through a private party will often turn up the best price. They have no overhead to cover and frequently they are eager to get rid of the vehicle. A private owner, however, would not be able to provide financing. Again, always make sure you have a professional mechanic inspect the used car.
Used-Car Dealers
Here you can find many makes, models, and used cars in almost any condition and price range. If the dealership has been around for a long time and has a good reputation, it is a good sign that they are trustworthy. Many used-car dealerships also arrange financing for you. Still, price and quality tend to be lower than at a new-car dealership.
Online
This has become a very powerful tool for finding a good used car in the past few years. There is no database that can bring to you more options, opinions, and information on used cars. The Web also provides an easy way to find out the price for which various models are selling in your area. Try to limit your search to the area within which you're willing to travel to inspect a vehicle. Because many sellers are car dealerships, most sites provide direct links to the dealerships' Web sites. Online auctions are another resource. The auction system is a little different from standard negotiations over price, it is more like bidding. This does mean you can get a bargain, but it also means that you usually can't get out of the deal. A note about looking for a used car online; even if you find one, it doesn't mean it is still at the dealership, as there is no way you can know how often they update their site. So, always call ahead to check for availability.
New Car/ Franchised Dealers
Many franchised dealers have a used-car department that sells trade-ins, auction vehicles, or used cars that have come back at the end of a lease. You will often find late-model vehicles here, and they often have the remains of a warranty on them. What you will not find are older, less expensive used cars, so shop elsewhere if the is a tight budget.
Service stations
These sometimes have a sideline business selling used cars. There is often not the greatest selection of used cars. Still, prices are often better than those you'll find at a dealership.