Buying a used car can be a great way to get behind the wheel of an excellent automobile without spending a lot of cash. However, since no two pre-owned vehicles are alike, you must first find out more about the vehicle before you sign on the dotted line. If you’re looking at a used car in another state, best be looking at auto transport reviews. This will help you determine mistakes you may make before you ship vehicles to you.
But in particular, you will want to find the answers to the following questions:
1. Has the car been involved in any accidents?
This is a crucial question as it helps you find out whether the car has any performance issues. You can find this information out by asking the dealer directly or by using sites like Carfax or Vehiclehistory.com. Checking the paintwork, bringing your mechanic along to the dealership, and being on the lookout for clamp marks are a few other methods you can use to check a used car’s accident history. Asking about a car’s accident history will help you know how much you will need to spend to fix any performance issues in addition to helping you determine whether the car is safe enough for you and your family to travel in.
2. Why is the owner selling this used car?
It is important to find out whether the owner wants to sell to upgrade to a newer or bigger car, or because of performance issues. If the owner reveals that he has to get the car serviced or repaired every so often, then you might want to give that particular vehicle a pass.
3. Whose name is on the pink slip?
Find out whose name is on the car’s title. If you are buying directly from an individual, then his/her name should be on the slip. The same goes for a dealership that should have its name printed on the cars it is selling. If the title is in a bank’s name, then it means that the seller has an outstanding loan that you will need to clear before the title can be transferred to you. In addition, if the seller is unwilling or unable to show you the pink slip, it is probably best to walk away in order to avoid being scammed.
4. What is the used car’s mileage?
A vehicle with low mileage will usually give you service longer without requiring major service. A low mileage car will also sell easier in case you decide to dispose of it. Further, banks are more willing to offer to finance on low mileage cars as opposed to high mileage options. You can find this information by asking the owner to show you the odometer, using Carfax, or contacting the department of motor vehicles.
5. What are the common problems with buying a used car?
Find out typical problems for the particular model you want to purchase. All models have problems but you will want to stay away from those that require expensive repairs or replacement. Common problems include; faulty gearboxes (BMW 3 series), malfunctioning brakes (land rover discovery), and failing alternators (Ford Focus). If the model you are interested in has one or more of these problems, you may want to move on to the next option.
In Closing
By asking and answering the questions outlined above, you can successfully find out the information you need to know about your prospective purchase. If you are satisfied with the results of your inquiries, you can then take possession of the keys and drive away in your new ride.
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