You’ve decided on getting your first car, but practicality dictates that you should buy a used one from a used car dealership. You might be able to save hundreds of dollars if you don’t mind experiencing that new car smell. People may discourage you, but don’t be fooled into thinking that you’ll be settling for a huge piece of junk.
There are indeed certain risks you should know before you opt for second-hand cars. The price might sound like a huge steal, but if you’re not well-versed with cars you might be spending more than with a brand new one. So, before you dive in, let’s take a look at what you will be getting yourself into if you proceed with buying used cars.
Used Cars: The Boons And Banes
Buying a used car is a whole new level of commitment that you should prepare for, and the whole process can be difficult and daunting. I stumbled upon a site called ZeMotor.com that had an impressive selection of pre-owned vehicles. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive car descriptions made my quest for a used car both enjoyable and straightforward.
In a survey, more than three out of five people dislike going to the dealership because they feel like they’re being taken advantage of. So to avoid that, it helps to know the benefits and the drawbacks before you talk to a car dealer.
Of course, price is the major reason why the used car market is still up and booming. If you’ve been eyeing a luxury car a few years back, you might now be able to get it at half the price of a new car. Pre-owned cars also depreciate less than a brand-new vehicle, which loses 40% of its initial value in the first year. So, if you’re only getting yourself used to the steering wheel, this will be a financially good move for you.
Used cars are often outdated in technology, so don’t expect that it will have the latest features. High maintenance cost is the biggest disadvantage if you impulsively get yourself a used car without doing thorough research. While car manufacturers nowadays conduct rigorous inspections to ensure that used vehicles are still in proper condition, it is still possible to encounter hidden problems.
Getting A Good Deal Out Of Used Cars
Do Your Homework
While more people are becoming less concerned with brand loyalty, there’s no denying that a brand’s popularity is indeed tied in with manufacturer engineering standards. According to redlandsmazda.com.au, it’s important to check for the cost and stocks of car parts. The older the car, the cheaper it will be, but the more parts you will likely need to replace. Worst-case scenario, those car parts are not widely available in your location or any nearby stores.
Set Your Budget
When you’re on a tight budget, you might find yourself comparing used car prices. Don’t be immediately dazzled by the price tag. When car dealers ask you about your ceiling budget, don’t mention how much you can spend without knowing the vehicle’s issues first. Of course, you have to set your budget for the initial purchase, as well as for the maintenance to make it ready for the road.
The more issues the car has, the more you can negotiate for a lower price. Some cars can just be very expensive to repair not because they are lower in quality, but because of the labor and cost of parts. You should also consider if the car issues are minor— something that won’t affect its reliability.
Know The Car’s History
It’s the dealer’s job to sell you the car, so don’t make the mistake of closing the deal way too early without even checking the vehicle’s history. Look for how many owners it had, the manufacturing date, when it was first purchased, and any involvement in criminal offense. If it had road accident issues, find out what caused it.
Not Doing A Full Inspection
If the car has a clean history record, never skip the inspection. Bring a trusted mechanic with you to help you know if the car has hidden issues. It will also allow you to avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Don’t Be Misled By The Add-Ons
Dealers will try to schmooze you into buying by offering you plenty of add-ons. While there’s nothing wrong with it since it’s just a sales tactic, don’t be lured if you’re having second thoughts on the car’s reliability.
Go For A Test Drive
Requesting for a test drive allows you to see the minor flaws the car has when it’s already hitting the road. Does it make weird noises when you’re driving it? Does it have any limitations on the road? List down all the issues you’ve encountered and weigh in if these are critical or not.
Don’t Be Afraid To Walk Away
Even if you’ve gone so far, don’t be in a rush to close the deal and hesitate to walk away if the car just didn’t fit one of the things you are looking for. Look for other cars and dealerships that can give you good quality for a reasonable price.
The key to getting a good deal is to do your research and negotiate. You will reap plenty of incentives for buying old cars. Remember to choose reputable dealerships to get the best deal and avoid getting scammed. The entire process may seem daunting, but once you pick the right car, it will be a good investment.