In The Market For A Used Car? Consider These 3 Things

If you are interested in a used car and you want to know what you're getting before you buy, you'll want to do a few things before you make the purchase. You can't always judge a car by its outwards appearance, so you need to consult a professional that can see what's under the hood, regardless if the vehicle looks shiny and clean.  

It doesn't matter if you are buying the used vehicle from a private seller or a popular dealership, and you have to do your homework to make sure you don't get burned. Here a few things to consider before you make any deal.

Mechanic Inspection

You should have a car looked at by a professional mechanic, such as those at Professional Automotive, before you purchase it. The cost to have a mechanic inspect the car may be around $100 or more, but it's worth the investment. This could save you from purchasing a car that needs hundreds of dollars of work under the hood, or one that has components in poor condition that cost a lot to replace or repair. Once you've had the inspection you'll know what minor or major issues need to be addressed on the vehicle.

VIN Number Data Report

The dealership should offer you a full VIN number data report about the vehicle, such as the number of people that have owned it, if it was in any auto accidents and things similar. You can also see if the mileage that should be on the odometer is accurate. If they don't offer you a full report, pay the money to get one yourself online, and verify the facts before you buy.

Warranty

If you are purchasing the vehicle from a dealership, do they offer any type of warranty? Many dealerships will offer a 30 day or longer warranty to help you feel confident that you're not buying something that is going to break down shortly after you drive off the lot, or shortly after the purchase.

Buying a used vehicle is a great way to get a reliable car without having to spend a lot of money, and it's a smarter investment then buying a new car or taking out a lease because it's a better investment. New cars lose tons of value right when they are driven away from the dealerships, but used cars can maintain their value.

Search around and find a used auto dealer that is trusted in your area, or a private seller that is willing to let you get the vehicle inspected and that has nothing to hide in the vehicle report.