What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Buyers who are shopping for a used car in Memphis or Southaven, MS can easily find themselves overwhelmed with the choices available. How can you tell which car is a good buy? What should you look for when buying a used car? Do you know what questions to ask when buying a used car? The team at Collierville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help you learn how to navigate the used car-buying process so that you feel confident in your decision, and happy with your vehicle. Take a look at our guide to what to look for when buying a used car. 

How to Buy a Used Car From a Dealer

When you choose to buy a used car from a dealership, you open yourself up to so many more options compared to shopping at a used car lot or buying from a private seller. Full-service dealerships offer larger selections that include like-new certified pre-owned cars with warranty coverage, and financing options to work with every budget. If you choose to shop with a Collierville, TN-area dealership like Collierville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, here’s what to look for when buying a used car: 

• Price: Take time to consider the balance between cost to buy and cost to own. Be sure to factor in future repairs, new tires, routine maintenance, and if a car loan is needed to finance the used car. A monthly payment shouldn’t exceed 10 percent of your monthly income. Get an idea of monthly payments with our payment calculator. 

• Your criteria there are a couple of factors you should consider when buying a used car. It should fit your budget, match your mileage expectations, and fit some of the key requirements like the inclusion of a vehicle history report. Compile a list of cars you’re interested in and compare that to what’s offered at the dealership. Then, do a deep dive into the reliability reviews from sites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book, and compare what price the vehicle sold for in your area. 

• How it drives: Be sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic, and take it out for a test drive to verify the performance and how comfortable you feel behind the wheel. 

• Payment options: Once you’ve found a used car that works for you, take your time to explore your loan options, and be sure to factor in other fees and credits like state sales tax, registration fees, and the trade-in value of your previous vehicle. When completing the deal you’ll also want to make sure you’re covered with any applicable warranties and car insurance plans.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

We know what’s it’s like when you’re asked if you have any questions, you draw a blank, only to remember them later. When looking at what to ask when buying a used car, we suggest taking this list of questions with you to the dealership: 

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?

Learn More With Collierville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

At Collierville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram we love helping customers learn the ins and outs of the car-buying process, no matter what their budget might be. To learn more about what to look for when buying a used car and how to navigate the car-buying process, visit our car-buying tips.