Used cars are often the first car drivers get. Either as hand me down car from a family member or a friend or buying a used car from a dealer, there are things you should consider before your next purchase. Being that the vehicle is used, there are necessary steps that should be taken to ensure you don’t waste money, time and effort.
Cost
Cost is typically high on the list of things to consider and greatly depends on your financial situation. While cost may determine what quality of used car you can afford it may not be the most important factor. If purchasing a used car for a teenager or young adult’s first car, you may not want to get the highest quality used car available to instil morals and life lessons for the young adult. All vehicles new or used must have some form of insurance, depending on the state you live. When considering the cost of the vehicles, you must include the insurance cost as part of your monthly budget. Today the consumer has many options for a comprehensive car insurance quote, with both full and liability insurance. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes to determine which insurance companies coverage fits within your budget.
Make And Model Of The Vehicle
When shopping for used cars, I think the most important thing to consider is the make and model of the vehicle. When it comes to cars, some makes are better used than others. Many cars tend to have different problems at different stages in the car’s life. Some cars don’t require any significant mechanical work until 50 thousand to 70 thousand mile mark, and others not until over 100 thousand miles. Some people say American cars are good used cars to buy and others say Japanese vehicles.
Typical Toyota’s, Honda’s and Nissan are good reliable vehicles are great options to consider when purchasing used cars. On the other hand, many feel cars like Chevys and specific Ford models are great used cars. While there are still people, who think Korean vehicles are best for used cars. Depending on what region of the world you live, it may help determine what is in your best interest. In America for example, there may be problems getting parts for cars from overseas.
Year Of The Car
The year of the vehicle should be considered in conjunction with the model. For an instant, an American Chevy manufactured in 2005, may not be the same as a Honda made in 2005. Some cars may need significant work and if not gotten by the former owner may lead to more significant problems down the line.
Mileage
Mileage is probably the most critical measure to consider when purchasing a used car. Regardless of the make, model, and even the year, the mileage of a vehicle can usually indicate what shape the car is in. All vehicles are required to undergo various repairs at certain mileage levels. Around the 30,000 spark plugs and all fluids should be checked and changed. At the 60,000 miles, spark plugs and belts should be inspected and replaced. The 100,000-mile mark an initial inspection should be performed.
Test Drive
The test drive, especially with a trained mechanic can shed light on many problems and potential problems a vehicle may have. It’s essential to get behind the wheel, to get a feel for driving the car to determine if it is big enough for you. Different vehicles drive differently, and test driving the car will help you determine if this is a vehicle you can imagine yourself driving.
Who Is The Previous Owner?
Another essential factor to consider when purchasing a used car is, who was the previous owner, this is important if your buying from a dealership or an individual. Depending on who was the prior owner of the vehicle can significantly determine what condition the car is in when you purchase the car. Buying from a previous owner who lived in an urban area may have more wear and tear from the stop and go nature of traffic in cities. While purchasing from a senior in a non-urban area usually means the vehicle may be in better condition.
Vehicle History
After considering the previous owner, the mileage and make and model of the car, other resources to find are Kelley Blue Book and CarFax. CarFax is good to get hard evidence on what kind of life the used car has had. CarFax data is compromised from police reports, repair shops and state title agencies. While CarFax can help the would-be buyer to make a choice that is in your best interest, it is only as good as the sources of the data. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) has been around since 1926 and has vetted data streams to ensure the most accurate data on each vehicle listed.