THE ULTIMATE USED CAR BUYERS GUIDE: 8 STEPS TOWARDS BUYING A GREAT USED CAR

Did you know that the sale of used cars in the U.S. is over 39.4 million?

From their prices to flexibility, used cars boast advanced technology, safety features, and impressive longevity. 

However, as interesting as this sounds, the dynamics of purchasing a pre-owned vehicle in such a saturated market might be a bit hectic. 

“How does one navigate the plethora of considerations involved in acquiring a used car?” “How do you ensure that the vehicle aligns seamlessly with your budget, lifestyle, and expectations?” “What to look for when buying a used car?” To the simple “How to buy a car.” 

There are so many crucial mile markers on the path to securing a used car and this “Ultimate Used Car Buyer’s Guide” is your compass in this intricate journey.

Read on…

Step 1: Decide on a Budget and Payment Scheme

Budgeting for a used car is a bit more complicated than budgeting for a new one. Aside from the sticker price (which you may be able to negotiate), you should also account for dealership fees and sales tax. Another thing to consider is the upkeep cost – stuff like annual registration fees, maintenance costs, and potential damage repairs.

Don’t forget daily expenses like fuel, parking, and toll costs too.

Next, think about your financing options: will you be paying the full price in cash or putting a percentage down and paying the rest in installments via loan? Remember that loan interest rates are usually higher for used cars than they are for new cars. This is because banks and loan-giving entities predict that used cars are more prone to breakdowns and high maintenance fees – things that could cost you money early in the game and affect how well you can keep up with loan payments.

Once you have a ballpark figure, you can then start looking at cars within that range.

Pro Tip: On a budget? Shorter loans are the way to go. While a longer loan will buy you more time to pay off the balance, it also means paying more in interest. With long loans, you could also place yourself in a precarious financial situation where your warranty expires before you’re done paying off your loans. When this happens, you could be paying double for your car – one for your loans and another for repairs.

Step 2: Weigh Your Wants vs Your Needs

Before immersing yourself in online car searches, take a moment to contemplate what truly matters to you.

This step involves a comprehensive consideration of various factors i.e. ” What to look for when buying a used car,” and “Used car warranty”, each playing a crucial role in determining the suitability of a vehicle.

Here are the things you need to consider:

Make and model: Beyond personal preference, understanding which cars are frequently purchased in the market can impact your ownership experience. For instance, Forbes highlights the Ford F-150 as one of the most popular used cars in the U.S. This means it’s a practical choice due to the availability of affordable parts. Similarly, the Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Honda Civic, closely following the Toyota RAV4, are popular options, offering a blend of reliability and accessibility to spare parts.

Size and seating capacity: Tailor your choice to your daily needs. Are you seeking a reliable daily commuter, a family car, or a vehicle capable of transporting substantial outdoor gear during the summer months? While the allure of a two-seater sports car might be captivating, it might not align with the practicalities of your daily life, especially if you need to shuttle children and their friends to various activities.

AWD/4WD: For off-roaders and folks who need to transport heavy loads, all-wheel and four-wheel drive are must-haves. AWD/4WD provides better traction on slippery roads, such as those covered in mud, ice, or snow. Four-wheel drive offers greater control and power. This makes it easier to pull trailers even on rocky and slippery terrain.

Transmission:  The choice between manual and automatic transmissions is pivotal and largely depends on your geographical location and daily commute. While manual transmissions offer more control, they might not be the most convenient in high-density, stop-and-go traffic areas. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, provide a smoother driving experience in such conditions.

Safety features: In a world where road accidents claim approximately 38,000 lives annually in the United States alone, prioritizing safety features is paramount. Apart from the standard safety belt, features like the anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and head-protecting/frontal airbags should not be compromised. These features contribute significantly to the overall safety of the vehicle and its occupants.

Age and mileage: Older cars are often much cheaper than newer cars thanks to depreciation, so if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look into later models. However, you should watch out for high-mileage vehicles. While high mileage is not necessarily a dealbreaker, it should keep you on guard for signs of wear and tear that’ll cost you in the long run.

When considering a high mileage car, always check on the gearbox, brake pad, and timing belt, as these are some of the first to go after miles and miles of driving.

Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles:  Certified Pre-Owned vehicles offer a middle ground between brand new and traditional used cars. These cars undergo rigorous inspections and are deemed roadworthy, providing buyers with a level of assurance similar to that of a new vehicle. While not brand new, CPOs often come close in terms of condition and reliability.

Step 3: Find Sellers And Narrow Down Your Options

With the internet revolutionizing the used car market, the process of finding sellers and narrowing down your options has become more convenient. Instead of spending time and resources visiting numerous local dealerships, online platforms offer the ability to screen multiple car ads before engaging with sellers. You can check out Wii Auto Sales.

While online platforms provide a vast array of options, it’s crucial to exercise vigilance due to the presence of potential scammers. Distinguishing between private sellers and licensed dealers is another crucial aspect of this step.

Private Sellers vs Dealers

There are key differences between buying from a private seller and a licensed dealer. Firstly, private sellers often sell their vehicles for much cheaper than dealers. This is mostly because private parties aren’t required to do much legwork in terms of servicing the vehicle and preparing a Buyer’s Guide.

According to the FTC, a Buyer’s Guide is a “disclosure document that gives consumers important purchasing and warranty information” on the vehicle for sale. By the FTC’s Used Car Rule, all licensed dealers are required to provide a Buyer’s Guide for all used cars that have “a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 8,500 pounds, a curb weight of less than 6,000 pounds; and a frontal area of less than 46 square feet”.

Here’s what dealers should include in the Buyer’s Guide:

• The major mechanical and electrical systems of the vehicle
• Problems consumers should be aware of in the above-mentioned systems
• Any warranties issued by the dealer and what percentage of repair costs will be covered
• A statement that says all agreements made between consumer and dealer will be put in writing
• A statement telling consumers they have a right to have the car inspected before purchase
• Information on where buyers can acquire a vehicle history report and how to check for safety recalls

Secondly, unlike most private sellers, dealerships can issue warranties on used vehicles. While private sellers may be easier to negotiate with on the price, you likely won’t be able to convince a private seller to cover your warranty.

Step 4: Research And Inspect

Now that you’ve narrowed down your search, it’s time to delve deeper into the details. This step involves extensive research to ensure you’re well-informed before making any decisions.

Research The Value Of The Vehicle

If you’re unfamiliar with used car prices, it’s good to look through sites like the National Automobile Dealers Association’s (NADA) Guides, the Kelley Blue Book, and Consumer Reports for a loose idea on how much your top picks go for. That way, you can tell if your dealer/seller is short-changing you. Be suspicious of cars that are being sold for much lower than their standard prices too – this often indicates that the seller is trying to get rid of it fast due to hidden issues.

Next, look up your options’ upkeep costs. Some cars are more prone to electrical and mechanical failure at a certain age. Make sure you have the budget to cover the repairs they need in the future.

Call The Seller And Set A Date

Initiate contact with the seller or dealer to gather essential information about the car. Inquire about mileage, safety issues, recalls, accident history, major repairs, existing liens, ownership history, service history, title history, and payment options. Setting a viewing date enables you to inspect the car thoroughly.

Get A Vehicle History Report

Always request the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report. This report, available from sites like CARFAX and AutoCheck, provides critical insights into the car’s past, helping you identify potential issues that might impact its safety and value.

Inspect The Vehicle

If you lack automotive expertise, consider hiring a mechanic to conduct a thorough inspection. This professional evaluation covers exterior and interior aspects, including dents, scratches, rust, paint quality, window conditions, tire conditions, and overall functionality. The mechanic’s report provides a comprehensive overview of necessary repairs and their associated costs.

Step 5: Test Drive

The test drive is a pivotal step in the process, allowing you to experience firsthand how the vehicle is handled and identifying potential issues that might not be apparent through inspection alone.

Here’s how to make the most of your test drive:

Check for Comfort

Start by sitting in the driver’s seat and adjusting it to ensure optimal comfort. Evaluate the visibility and adjustability of controls. Move to the backseat to assess passenger comfort. A smooth and comfortable driving experience is paramount.

Examine the Controls

Start the car and test all controls on the panel. Ensure that lights function properly, the radio acoustics are satisfactory, and the windshield wipers operate smoothly. Thoroughly examine the functionality of all essential controls.

Drive Carefully

While assessing acceleration is crucial, drive cautiously, especially with a vehicle you’re not yet familiar with. Choose a route that includes a mix of highways, small streets, and stop-and-go traffic to evaluate the car’s performance in various conditions.

Observe, Observe, Observe

Pay attention to how easily you can maneuver the steering wheel around corners. Check visibility through windows and mirrors. Test the brakes to ensure they respond effectively without being too sensitive or sluggish.

Acceleration and Transmission

Accelerate gradually to assess the vehicle’s response and how smoothly it shifts gears. Ensure the transmission operates seamlessly, as any difficulty shifting might indicate potential problems.

Alignment and Suspension

Release the steering wheel briefly to check if the car veers left or right, assessing alignment. Evaluate the suspension by driving over speed bumps to gauge the car’s stability and comfort.

Step 6: Negotiate On A Price

While there are no hard and fast rules about negotiating, both parties must remain respectful and professional throughout the entire process. Some dealers may be pushy and pressure you into a sale – these are the kinds of deals you should learn to walk away from. A professional dealer respects their clients enough to give them enough time to mull over a big purchase like this.

If you’re trying to negotiate to a lower price, do so by bringing up issues you found during your inspection. If possible, have your mechanic come up with a professional quote on everything that needs to be done to bring your car to tip-top shape.

The best way to come prepared for the negotiation part is exactly that: come prepared, research, have all the necessary documents ready, and always have a calculator on you. If possible, bring a friend or expert who has experience with car negotiations. An additional perspective can be valuable, especially if they are knowledgeable about pricing and the specific model you’re considering.

Step 7: Discuss Warranties

While new cars always come with manufacturer’s warranties, it’s a different story with used cars. Depending on where you live, some dealers may be able to sell a used car “as is”, meaning they aren’t required by law to provide any kind of warranty for repairs and other issues. Check state laws for complete information on “as is” policies in your state.

Manufacturer’s warranties on new cars often last about three years, so if you’re buying a used car that’s under three years old, you may still be able to benefit from this – so long as the warranty is transferable. On the other hand, a dealer may offer you a service warranty or an extended warranty. This is a type of warranty wherein the dealership shoulders a certain percentage of repair costs depending on the terms of the warranty.

Whether or not an extended warranty is a good deal depends on transferability, service coverage, and the cost of the warranty versus the cost of the repairs.

Step 8: Title Transfer And Registration

The final step in the process of buying a used car involves the legal aspects of transferring ownership and ensuring compliance with registration requirements. This step is essential to complete the purchase and officially make the car yours.

If you’re buying from a private seller, you will likely have to do everything yourself. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Have the car’s title transferred to your name
2. Conduct an emission test
3. Get a complete safety inspection
4. Provide proof of insurance
5. Provide identification (preferably more than one kind)
6. Provide proof of address

Remember that requirements, fees, and procedures vary per state, so check with your DMV beforehand.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to purchase a used car is a meticulous process that involves careful considerations and informed decisions. By diligently navigating the eight essential steps outlined in this guide, you’ve positioned yourself to make a satisfying and well-thought-out investment. From setting a budget and narrowing down options to negotiating a fair price and completing legal formalities, each step contributes to ensuring a smooth and fulfilling ownership experience.

As you venture onto the open road with your newly acquired vehicle, may it bring you countless miles of joy and reliability.

Safe travels!