Tips for Buying a Used Car

New cars are flashy and exciting, but they lose value quickly – too quickly to justify the purchase in most cases.  Used cars are often in great shape, with sound construction and just a few extra miles.  When buying used, the process can be a little different, especially when buying from a private seller.  Here are a few tips on how to go through this process with a happy ending. 

Set the Budget 

Before buying a car, or any substantial purchase, for that matter, evaluate the budget first.  Find out what money is going in and what is going out, and then determine what is available to buy a car.  Do not just look to see what kind of payment can be supported, but how much can be saved and put towards a large down payment.  Have a number in mind first, and then do not deviate from it. 

Shop Online First 

Going into a used car lot blind is never a great strategy.  Shop online first to avoid all the tactics and techniques employed to make money for the dealership.  Check out makes and models, find out what the price should be, and whittle down the list to a few solid possibilities.   

Check the Vehicle History 

Before going to check out a used car, run its vehicle history to find out as much about it as possible.  There are services that will reveal past accidents, past repairs and much more.  Someone selling their car is not likely to put all that upfront, so find out first to determine if the purchase is even worth it. 

Plan Out the Conversation 

Going through a sales negotiation is an intimidating process for a lot of people.  Plan out in advance how the conversation will go.  Decide how to respond to common sales tactics and know ahead of time what is negotiable and what is not.  Car salesmen do this every day, so be ready for the contest. 

Get it Tested 

When looking at a used car, always take a test drive, and always have it inspected.  These are normal, standard procedures, and if a seller refuses to allow them, it should raise a red flag.  Drive the car slowly and quickly, try out the radio and climate control, listen for strange noises and look under the hood.  Take it to a trusted mechanic who can provide a recommendation and identify any problems that might be less than obvious. 

Do it Right 

At the point of purchase, do not cut corners.  Be sure to follow all applicable laws and regulations, getting documentation of everything.  Paying in cash only without any paperwork, for example, is a terrible idea.  Have the car registered and properly tagged before considering the purchase completed.