This article was first published on Dictated News by Chanel Alli
More and more drivers are opting to buy a used car instead of purchasing a new car in this economic climate. Purchasing a used car can be more work than some may think, however. Here are a few tips to consider before making the final decision on a used car:
Start with the Kelley Blue Book. In the time between finding the car you want and the day you make the purchase, you should establish a thorough understanding of the history of the car. The Kelley Blue Book will establish the value of your particular car and can give you an idea of the deal you’re really getting. You can check the value of your used car by accessing the official Kelley Blue Book website. This website is a trusted resource in both the new and used car markets.
Check the vehicle’s history report. In your quest to build a more thorough understanding of a car’s past, you should order a vehicle history report. Once you’ve made contact with the person selling the car, request the Vehicle Identification Number so that you can search for the report. Some dealers will gladly show you a vehicle’s history report but if you need to find your own, websites like Carfax will provide you with a thorough report for a fee. If you have your checkbook in hand and you’re about to make a huge investment in a car, the dealer shouldn’t refuse to show you the vehicle’s history report. If for some reason the dealer refuses, it may be time to search elsewhere.
No warranty may affect your deal. If you’re purchasing a vehicle from a used lot that offers cars on an as-is, no-warranty basis, you should reconsider the value of a warranty. Even if a dealer is offering a car at a steal (as compared to its Kelley Blue Book value) the money that you spend in repairs might end up costing you more in the long run. A warranty instills faith that your dealer is selling you a car that they accept responsibility for. Even though they don’t think anything is wrong with the car, they are willing to guarantee it and fix it if they’re wrong. Determine how much that warranty means to you before you sacrifice it for a sweet deal.
Be confident and haggle away. It can be a daunting experience to negotiate with a stranger but you deserve the best deal possible. Auto sales is centered around reasonable negotiation. If your dream car is $2,000 more than you wanted to pay, don’t walk away immediately. At the end of the day, the dealer wants to make a deal and sell this car. If you can save a few hundred dollars in the process, it’s a win-win for everyone. While you shouldn’t aim to walk away with a car for next to nothing, you may be able to make your dream car feel a little more realistic. Don’t be concerned about what the dealer thinks about you and if you find it hard to be confident in your haggling, move towards more contemplation. Showing the dealer that you are considering the deal but are not committed to the idea will allow them to offer a discount and begin the conversation.
