Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Purchasing a used vehicle can come with many benefits, including a cheaper price tag and a lower depreciation rate. Even with those benefits, it’s still important to take some other factors into consideration so you can feel confident in your investment. Whether you plan to purchase a pre-owned vehicle from a dealership or a private seller, here are 10 questions to ask when buying a used car to help you through the process.

How Old Is the Car?

More than likely, the car’s age is one of the first factors you’ll consider when shopping for a used vehicle. It’s important to know how old the car is so you can estimate its current value. According to Kelley Blue Book, most vehicles depreciate by 20% within the first year and 60% within the first five years, though it depends on the make and model. Research the value of the car online before you go to the dealership or meet with a private seller. Knowing this information, you may be able to negotiate the price of the car.

How Many Miles Does the Vehicle Have?

In addition to age, the car’s mileage provides information about its use and value. If a used car has low mileage, it’s likely worth more, and vice versa. It can also make a difference if previous owners used the car more for city or highway driving. City driving, which usually involves bumpier roads, lower speeds, and more idling, can affect the vehicle’s braking and suspension. It’s worth asking about the car’s driving history to help you make an informed decision.

Does the Car Come With a Warranty?

While many people associate warranties with new cars, the truth is that many used cars may still be under a manufacturer’s warranty. In addition, dealerships may sell certified pre-owned vehicles, which usually come with additional protection. For example, at Eskridge Chevrolet, our Chevrolet certified pre-owned vehicles come with a one-year, 12,000-mile limited warranty and an extended powertrain warranty. This type of warranty can provide extra peace of mind when purchasing a used car.

Does the Car Have Visible Exterior Damage?

Take some time to inspect the vehicle for visible dings, scratches, or dents. While you may be able to live with minor blemishes, major damages can indicate structural problems that could result in costly repairs. Some areas to check out while inspecting the vehicle include:

• Paint scratches or areas of rust.
• Windshield chips or cracks.
• Dents in the wheels.
• Worn or cracked tires.
• Foggy or cracked headlights or taillights.

How Does the Interior Look?

Once you’ve inspected the outside, take a close look at the car’s interior, since that’s where you’ll spend most of your time. Sniff around for any strange odors, like smoke or mildew. Check the upholstery for obvious tears or stains. While you’re in the car, turn it on so you can test the heating, air conditioning, and audio system. Don’t forget to look in the trunk for signs of water damage or mold. You know yourself best, so ask whether you can handle the imperfections you may find inside a used car.

Has the Vehicle Been Involved in Any Accidents?

A used car that’s been in a minor accident or two likely won’t have lasting damage. A history of major accidents may be a sign that you’ll be paying for repairs well into the future. Make sure you ask about the vehicle’s history so you know whether it’s had previous damage and repairs. You can always ask to see a vehicle history report, which will provide this information. Most dealerships will give you this report, and private sellers can get one from places like Carfax.

Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?

You wouldn’t buy a new car without taking it for a test drive, so do the same when purchasing a used vehicle. Pay attention to how the car drives, including its braking, responsiveness, and handling. Even with all the information you now have about the vehicle, a test drive will give you the greatest sense of whether you’ll be happy driving it on your daily commute in Guthrie, Oklahoma. If a private seller refuses to let you drive the car, it’s probably a sign to keep looking.

Does the Car Come With Additional Perks?

Even when buying used, a new car is a serious investment, so it’s worth asking if it comes with additional perks. Private sellers may have outfitted the car with accessories they’ll include in the sale. At a dealership, you may get even more benefits with your used car. At Eskridge Chevrolet, we offer a range of perks when you purchase a certified pre-owned Chevrolet, including 24/7 roadside assistance, complimentary maintenance, and a satellite radio subscription.

How Does the Car Affect My Insurance Premium?

Purchasing a new car, even a used one, may affect the cost of your auto insurance. In addition to the cost of the vehicle, consider this expense so you can stay within your budget. For example, purchasing a much newer vehicle than the one you currently drive may cause your premium to go up. Before you buy a used car, contact your insurance company for a quote so you know what to expect.

What Type of Financing Is Available?

One benefit of buying a used car at a dealership is the ease of financing. Unless you plan to pay for the used car in cash, a dealership can work with you to find financing options within your budget. Many dealerships, including Eskridge Chevrolet, will even work with buyers who have bad credit or no credit to help them secure financing. At a dealership, you may also be able to trade in your current vehicle as a down payment toward the new car.

Find a Quality Used Car in Guthrie, Oklahoma

At Eskridge Chevrolet, we take the guesswork out of buying a used car. When you purchase a pre-owned vehicle from us, you can feel confident in its condition and value. We also sell Chevrolet certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles that undergo detailed inspections to meet rigorous standards for quality and performance. When you purchase a CPO vehicle, it’s like getting a like-new car for the cost of a used one. Take a look at our current pre-owned inventory or stop by our dealership to see what we have in stock. If you have any questions, contact us today.

 

Chevrolet Malibu by crash71100 is licensed with CC0 1.0

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