Buying a car: the benefits and tips for buying a used car

Buying a car can be scary; there are so many points to think about. New or used? Car, truck or SUV? Price range and financing options?

Many people are adamant about buying only new cars. With a new car you know exactly where it came from and most new cars come with a warranty that will last you a few years. However, buying a used car also has its advantages. A used car does not mean that the car was made in the 70’s and is covered in rust. Many used cars are only a year old and therefore up to 30 percent off the new sticker price. Some used vehicles are still so new that they are still covered by the original factory warranty. Most new and used car dealers today offer an extended warranty on certain used cars. They sell certified used cars, not rusty junk from the 1970s. A certified used car has passed the car dealers inspection in every conceivable way and that is why they can offer you warranty service. You might pay a bit more of a premium on this, but for peace of mind it’s something to think about. Every car has a VIN number, a Vehicle Identification Number, and a simple Carfax or Autotrace can trace the history. Most car dealers will offer you this service for free, just ask.

When it comes to car financing options, today’s new and used car dealers have this option available to you. They will look for the best solution based on your credit criteria. What usually works best is a decent down payment and a 5-year financing agreement. You decide how much you deposit and what you feel comfortable paying with. Talk to the financing department and find out your available options. Remember, they want to sell you a vehicle as much as you want to buy one. It’s a win-win situation to sit down and discuss options.

Some cars tend to hold up better than others. For this reason, certain cars sell better used than others. Honda Civics and Accords, Toyota Camrys and Corollas, Nissan Altimas and Ford F-Series and some of the most sought after used cars. They are built on solid business experience and have stood the test of time. This does not mean that you should only buy one of these used vehicles. Do your own research and see what works best for you.