Used Car Buying Tips

Buying a used car can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Car buying in the age of the internet is significantly easier than in the past; and armed with a little bit of knowledge on how to confidently buy a car, you can help ensure that you get the best used car for your money.

Here are a few car-buying tips that can help make the process a breeze:

Find a Reputable Dealer

When buying used cars, it’s important to have a certain level of trust with the car dealer you’re working with. Look online, but also ask friends and coworkers. This can be the best way to make sure you’re working with an honest, reputable dealer. Check that they have positive online reviews and a respectable online presence. Once you’ve done some research, pay them a visit. There should be no pressure when buying a used car and the dealer should be friendly, honest, patient and open. Shy away if the staff makes you feel uncomfortable.

Look for Flexible Financing Options

Once you’ve found a used car (or a few) that you’d like to check out, you’ll want to look at your financing options. Buying used cars as opposed to new doesn’t have to mean higher rates. Look for dealers that work with multiple banks and lenders to help get you the best financing options available.

Do your research and know how much you can afford before you meet with a salesperson. This will help you keep within your budget. Use an online auto loan calculator to help you see how different interest rates and down payments will affect what you can afford. If you have non-perfect credit, look for dealers that offer alternative credit options as well.

Buy With a Service Contract

Buying a car that comes with a service contract can help give you peace of mind. Knowing that a dealer will back your investment can make the car buying process much more relaxed. Look for a service contract or warranty of one year or more that will cover most things that may go wrong. Read the fine print and know exactly what is covered.

It may also be a good idea to have your mechanic look at the car so that you know of any issues that may arise to make sure it will be covered by the warranty.

But what if something goes wrong within the first day or two?

Ask for a Money-Back Guarantee

When buying a used car, always inquire about the dealer’s exchange policy and/or money back guarantee. There should be at least a day or two exchange period when buying used cars. Ideally, look for a 72-hour exchange policy in case something should go wrong.

Buying used doesn’t have to be hard. Follow these tips to help ensure a painless experience!

Weston Auto Gallery puts every car through a rigorous inspection process to ensure you are buying the best quality car on the market, and we back that up with a 72-Hour Exchange Policy.

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