What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Posted Wednesday, Nov 09, 2022

Getting a new car is exciting and it is a decision you don't want to rush. You want to make sure the vehicle you are buying fits your needs and that it’s exactly as you dreamed it would be. An excellent way to optimize the budget you have is to buy a used car; this way you’ll be able to buy a vehicle with attractive characteristics and the best features for a lower price. However, there are certain aspects beyond price that you should consider before making a decision as it is an important purchase.

Set Your Budget

Before starting your search, you should define the budget you have for your purchase. You must be realistic with the money you can spend on your new vehicle and know what kind of cars you can get with your budget. Remember that used cars have a slower depreciation time, so you can resell the car in a few years at a good price.

The Car’s Mileage

After defining what types of cars are within your budget, you can start your search. After taking a look at the cars you can buy and having some options in mind, you can start collecting information about them that will help you make the best decision. One of the first things you should find out is the car's mileage. In general, it is preferable that the car has a low mileage in relation to its age. Low mileage means less wear and tear and a higher resale price. Looking at the mileage is a great way to know if you are buying a good car.

Vehicle History Report

It’s a good idea to have relevant and transparent information from the very beginning so that you can make an informed decision. A good way to find out about the condition of the cars is to request a Vehicle History Report (VHR). For this, you need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the 17-digit code that identifies each specific car. There you can find out the results of odometer checks, how many previous owners it had, emissions inspection, and damage information, among others.

Warranty

Another piece of information that may be useful to you is whether the car is still under warranty. By federal law, dealers are required to specify whether or not the car has a warranty, and if so, what parts and services are covered and for how long. This makes it very easy to get information, and although it is not an absolutely decisive aspect, it doesn't hurt to know that you have access to information that could save you money in the future.

Mechanical Inspection 

Even if you have been able to access the car's maintenance records, it is always a good idea to have a personalized, up-to-date vehicle inspection. You can ask if you can do a mechanical inspection, and if you have a mechanic you trust, hire them to give you detailed information on the car's condition. You can always check the car yourself if you don't want to pay for the service.

 

When inspecting the exterior of the car, look at the condition of the paint, any wear and tear on the tires, dents, scratches, rust, corrosion, or greasy residue around the exhaust pipe. Although a small scratch is normal, a large dent is a sign that the car has been involved in an accident that could have affected the general condition of the vehicle.

 

As for the interior of the car, pay attention again to rust, scratches, or major dents. Check that the upholstery is in good condition, that it is not ripped or stained, and that there are no signs of mildew that could indicate water damage. Test every part of the car: turn on the air conditioning, the sound system, the lights, adjust the seats, put on the seat belts, and anything else you deem pertinent to make sure there is no damage that would be difficult and costly to repair.

Certified Pre-Owned Cars

You can inquire about certified pre-owned cars (CPO). These are cars backed by their manufacturers who guarantee that the vehicle is in excellent condition. Usually, they are less than five years old and are almost like new. In addition, they typically come with a factory warranty. However, these cars are usually more expensive than other used cars in similar condition and require the new owner to follow a maintenance schedule designed by the manufacturers.

Test Drive

We reached the most exciting and decisive step: driving it. A test drive will help you make the final decision. It is recommended that you drive on different types of roads, those with high speeds, lots of traffic, uneven roads, etc. You should also drive on a quiet road with no music in order to pay special attention to any sounds such as hissing, metallic screeching, or clattering. It’s important to activate all your senses and pay attention that there are no worrisome smells: musty, burning, or gasoline smells are all signs that something is wrong. Also, reflect if you visualize yourself driving that car in your daily life.

 

When purchasing a used car, go to a place you can trust and where you can count on the help of experts to guide you through every step of your search. This will guarantee that the selection and purchase process of your new pre-owned car will be pleasant and successful. At Lux Auto Centre, you will find personalized and transparent advice to choose the perfect car for your needs and dreams. Thanks to our luxury service, you will be able to solve all your doubts and feel confident in your final decision. Check our inventory and when you find a car that catches your attention, schedule a test drive.