Guide to Buying a Used Vehicle
Thanks to the fact that some new cars lose as much as ten percent of their value after just one year, and as much as forty percent by their fourth birthday, buying a used vehicle makes more sense today than ever before. Do your “due diligence” and you may be able to score an incredible bargain on a vehicle that looks and runs like their first day out of the showroom. So, whether you are shopping for a fuel-efficient hybrid for the daily commute, or a family-sized, pre-owned SUV, here’s a guide that can help.
Settle On a Budget
Just as with purchasing any item, the first step in the used car buying process is deciding on a budget. Consider the value of your trade-in (if you have one), how much cash you can put upfront, and how much monthly payment you can handle. A common rule of thumb is to calculate ten to fifteen percent of your net income on car-related expenses. But don’t forget that number includes maintenance, gas, and insurance. These factors should give you a ballpark idea of which aisle to shop in.
Do Your Homework
Now that you have a price range in mind, give some thought to what type of car, truck, or SUV will best suit your needs. The internet has a treasure trove of information on just about every vehicle you can think of. Once you settle on a class of vehicle that best fits your lifestyle, start browsing the used car listings on reputable sites. Rhinelander Buick GMC, for example, lists its entire inventory online. Every listing on the Rhinelander Buick GMC website includes the price, mileage, vehicle details, and even a free vehicle history report.
Decide Whether to Buy from a Dealer or a Private Seller?
If you’re one to gamble and are looking for a few bucks off, you may consider buying from a private party. While going this route may save you a couple of dollars upfront, you may end up regretting it in the long run. Most people sell their vehicles privately in order to avoid the scrutiny that comes with trading them in. In many cases, the vehicle has some major issues that will hurt its trade-in value.
Consider a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle
Dealers often sell late-model and off-lease vehicles in top shape as certified pre-owned. To enjoy the certified pre-owned status, a vehicle must pass a stringent mechanical inspection. Any issues they have will be taken care of by the dealer. Certified pre-owned vehicles usually come with an extended warranty, as well. So, while you may pay a little more for this type of purchase, in the long run, it can save you big.
Have a Checklist
When you ultimately find the car of your dreams, be methodical in your inspection. Finally, getting to sit in the vehicle that you have worked so hard to find may feel like you’re home free. It’s easy to get distracted by the salesperson, your significant other, and even your emotions as you give your potential purchase the once over. Having a checklist in hand will keep you focused on the task at hand. Here are just a few items to check:
• Check for rust, dents, or scratches and that the doors, the hood, and the trunk all line up and close properly.
• Look for uneven tire tread wear, mismatched tires, and total tread depth.
• Be sure that the brake, reverse, signal, and running lights work properly.
• Verify that all interior lights operate as expected.
• Check the wipers and spray the windshield with washer fluid.
• Check that the power seats adjust properly and warm up if heated.
• Go through every option on the infotainment system. Be sure that the system works as expected, is easy to use, and meets your personal sound-quality requirements.
• With the vehicle warmed up, cycle through the climate control system, and make sure the heat works and that the air conditioner’s compressor kicks on and the vents aren’t just blowing external cold air.
• Examine the upholstery and carpet for stains and excessive wear. Also, inspect the headliner material for water stains if the vehicle has a moonroof.
• Modern engines generally run smoothly and quietly. Listen for any odd noises.
• Check the vehicle history report.
Take It for a Test Drive
Of course, you will want to test drive your possible future transportation. Be sure to drive it on a variety of roads at different speeds. Test for acceleration, cornering, and braking. Take note of how you feel while driving (yes, your feelings do matter in this instance). Are you thoroughly enjoying the experience, or do you feel a bit off and uncomfortable? You’re paying a lot of money and may own this vehicle for many years to come, so be sure you love it from the first day forward.
