How to Find the Best Used Car

How to Find the Best Used Car. Have you ever thought about buying a used car, but were afraid of what might be hiding underneath? You’re not alone, and it’s one of the reasons that many people end up sticking with new cars even though they cost more in the long run. However, there are several steps you can take to ensure that you get the best used car possible without spending all day at the mechanic’s shop.

Where should you look for your used car?

Where you look for your used car will depend on what type of vehicle you want. A good place to start is at a local used-car dealership. Although these dealerships typically have higher prices, they also have more selection and financing options available, which can make them attractive in some cases.

How to Find the Best Used Car

If you don't see anything that catches your eye or fits within your budget at a dealership, check out other possible places to look, such as private sellers and online classifieds sites like Craigslist or Autotrader. Be aware that there are many dishonest people out there who can scam unsuspecting buyers, so be sure to keep an eye out for red flags and find someone you trust before making any deals.

How can you tell if it’s really a good deal for Used Car?

Sometimes, if you’re lucky, a used car will appear at your doorstep, with a good price and low mileage. Before handing over any cash, though, consider these factors: Make sure it’s really a good deal. Why? Because what someone paid for a car doesn’t tell you anything about its current value, nor does how much it has been driven—other than that it was driven into the ground or taken care of.

What matters most is whether you can get it reliably in working order for less than half its market value – ideally even less than that -- which is equivalent to a 12-15 percent profit on a $10,000 purchase after one year of use. How do you find out what an appropriate amount is?

What should you expect from your potential purchase?

If a car is priced right and looks great, it should run smoothly. The best used cars are driven regularly, not sitting in someone's garage or on a dealer's lot. You'll want to take it for a test drive and see how it responds. If you notice any funny noises or smell burning oil when you start driving, turn around and leave immediately.

How to Find the Best Used Car

Some sellers will try to tell you that sounds or smells are normal; they're not! Take your time: You may feel pressured into buying a car quickly because many used cars lose value quickly as soon as they're driven off the lot. It’s understandable that you want to get into something nice today, but don't rush your decision until you can make sure your potential purchase has nothing wrong with it.

Should you buy as is or with warranty ?

Though many used cars are sold as is, it’s also possible to buy a used car with a warranty. A warranty may be offered by a third party (say, an auto auction) or given by an individual seller. In either case, you should carefully inspect any cars you’re considering before buying. Read more about buying warranties and how they work.

What are the best used car websites?

You can research used cars on these websites and review new car pricing and information. You can also browse used cars for sale from local dealers or private sellers. Many of these sites have forums, where you can ask questions about a specific car or get advice from other users. Also, be sure to check out eBay Motors for classified listings of vehicles for sale. Some top websites best for Used Cars.

Carfax

Autotraders

Cars.com

Cars Direct

Cars Gurus

Craigslist.org

eBay Motors

AutoTempest

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