Save Money When Buying a Used Car with These Helpful Tips
Buying a used car is always a gamble. This is why some people prefer purchasing a new one as that way they believe they can at least get some warranty. However, apart from the warranty, the moment you take your car out of a dealership, it’s considered to be used and its value drops significantly and in a way, you are losing money.
Generally, used vehicles are more affordable so be willing to take the risk and try to lower it as much as you can by ensuring the quality and lowering the bid.
Research the forums and reviews
We are quite lucky to have the world full of information available at a click. Now, it will take you more than one click, surely, but it is still so easy to do an online research on any given topic. See what people have to say about cars and their features. Find out which models are more popular and what the reason behind it is.
Check which features can save you money in the long run. If you are a first-timer, get informed on the things to check when buying. Diesels are more expensive than petrols and are considered to be more durable, however, they contain certain parts that are very expensive to repair or replace etc.
Create a list
A shopping list is always a saver, no matter what you are buying. It helps you stay focused on what you actually need. Based on your research, make a list of models that you think may suit you. Do a bit more research so you know what prices to expect.
Check the prices of the new vehicles and the prices local dealers have to offer. If you are not certain of the actual models you are considering then be sure to make a list of features you need and do not lower your criteria to get a cheaper deal unless you absolutely have to.
If you do, you will end up disappointed with your purchase eventually as it is really hard to fit three kids in a back seat of a car with three doors.
Try to avoid commission
Not your commission, of course, the only thing you are getting out of this is a car. Make it your priority to look up offers made by private owners over dealerships.
A dealership has to get something from selling the car and in most cases, a price offered by a private owner will be more affordable. Also, the owner is usually not a professional sales person and they may be willing to close the deal faster.
Don’t go by yourself
Unless you are a mechanic, do not go car shopping on your own. Take your mechanic with you as you probably can trust them more than the seller’s word. I know this may sound skeptical but it is, especially if you are in a dealership.
Give them a go when taking the car for a test drive. A professional mechanic knows where to look and what to listen for. They will be able to tell you whether an engine has been washed, whether the paint job is original or whether an air bag has ever been activated. It will definitely cost you less than a car repair.
Be a firm negotiator
First of all, always have an idea of the figure you are not going to cross and always start at a lower one than what you are hoping to pay. You have yours and your mechanic’s knowledge on your side. Use it to find arguments to support you wen asking for a discount.
Do not let your ‘opponent’ see that you care for a particular car so keep your emotions to yourself. If they are playing hard to get, leave, they may even stop you as they reconsider their final offer. If not, I am sure you will find another car as good if not better than the one you’ve just walked away from.
Every car needs maintenance and so does the used one. Bear this in mind and do not feel like a failure if a battery dies on you after a month. It is disposable and it happens. The whole trick is in settling on both sides.
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Category: Car Purchase
