What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Whether you’re looking for a used car under 20k or a certified pre-owned vehicle, finding just the right vehicle might seem like quite the task. But luckily, shopping strategically takes the stress out of the whole process. In this guide, we go over what to look for when buying a used car, along with what to ask when buying a used car. This allows you to create a game plan for the dealership, so you can shop confidently for the car that fits your needs perfectly. Let’s get started!

How to Buy a Used Car From a Dealership

Buying a used car is a great choice for savvy shoppers. Not only do you save money upfront, but ownership costs are often lower as well—think registration fees, sales tax, insurance costs, and more. So, what’s the smart way to buy a car at a dealership?

• Set Your Budget: Think about how much you can budget for a monthly car payment. While you’ll need to think about the sticker price, also factor in things like maintenance costs and repairs. Use our payment calculator to crunch the numbers in seconds.
• Find Your Favorites: What type of car do you want? What features are must-haves? Make a wishlist of your ideal makes, models, and features and start reading reviews. Compare prices for similar models sold in your area.
• Drive and Inspect: Once you’ve settled on a model or two, go to the dealership for a test drive. See which cars truly suit your wants and needs. If you find a candidate that fits the bill, get it inspected by a trusted technician to make sure it’s sound.
• Finance and Finalize: Talk to the finance team about your options. Take your time to go over the loan terms, and once you’ve settled on a plan, finalize the contract and drive home with a smile!

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Knowing what to look for when buying a used car is key, but knowing what to ask when buying a used car is just as important. Why? There is a great deal of information that you won’t necessarily find on a specs sheet. By asking the proper questions, you’ll uncover information that can make or break the sale. Here are some questions to get you going:

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?

Shop Used Vehicles at Ken Nelson Auto Group

We’ve gone over the basics of shopping for your next pre-owned model, but if you have any questions remaining, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can also visit one of our locations to take a test drive and peruse our used vehicle specials in person.