Home Page American Government Reference Desk Shopping Special Collections About Us Contribute



Escort, Inc.






GM Icons
By accessing/using The Crittenden Automotive Library/CarsAndRacingStuff.com, you signify your agreement with the Terms of Use on our Legal Information page. Our Privacy Policy is also available there.

Basic Tips For Buying Pre-Owned Cars


Basic Tips For Buying Pre-Owned Cars

Adriana Noton
SubmitYOURArticle.com
May 26, 2011


Searching for and ultimately buying a pre-owned car should be a carefully handled process, as slip ups can turn into large financial mistakes. An automobile that turns out to be in much worse shape than advertised can cause problems that may last for many years. A number of tips for buying pre-owned cars, if followed, should give the buyer a much greater chance of success.

Cars that are pre-owned but on the newer side are likely to be in better shape. In some cases, they may even have a portion of the original warranty remaining. Automobiles such as these will obviously cost more than somewhat older models, but there will also be coverage available if there is a serious mechanical failure. Driving a used car with at least some warranty remaining can relieve quite a bit of stress.

As with new cars, and perhaps even more important, buyers should always test drive a pre-owned care before buying it. They will be able to see how it handles, and especially attentive drivers might be able to pick out any subtle mechanical problems or odd noises. If the buyer does not know a lot about cars, it is highly recommended that he/she bring along someone who does. This person can point out potential problems.

Buyers should also ask the seller if they can take the vehicle to their mechanic for a thorough check out. The mechanic should be one that the buyer knows well and that will give an honest opinion on the condition of the car. If the seller is reluctant to allow the release of the car even for a simple check up, then it is very possible that there is something wrong with the vehicle that is being covered up. Proceed with caution.

Aside from the mechanical workings, a buyer should also carefully go over the interior for signs of even minor damage. Cigarette burns and stains are often present on seats and other areas. Even if small damages are found, these can be used as negotiating points to decrease the cost of the car. If the seller has deliberately tried to hide this interior damage, then this speaks to a larger problem and the buyer might want to keep looking.

Because procuring a pre-owned vehicle can be difficult even in the best of circumstances, buyers should do their homework and come armed with a general idea of the estimated car value. If the seller offers a price that is much too high for the automobile, the buyer can come back with professional evaluations (found in many car magazines) and a fairer price. If someone will not budge on a price that is fair, it is just not worth it.

Potential owners should consider the kinds of lives they lead and should tailor a car to fit their needs. Those individuals with large families should not waste their time on examining sports cars but should recognize they probably need something a little bit more spacious, like a station wagon or minivan. Lifestyles can ultimately affect both the type of car bought and the amount paid.

Ultimately a series of tips for buying used cars can be extremely helpful. Financial hardship can be minimized and avoided altogether. Buyers can procure a reliable but cheap car that, if well maintained, should serve them well for many years.

----------------------------------------------------
Looking for reputable used trucks Edmonton can be difficult. Make sure you get information from different sources for example: Edmonton used car dealerships before you make decision.
http://www.canadawideautosales.com




The Crittenden Automotive Library