The Most Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Used Car
While used (sorry, used ) cars are more affordable than brand new models, they can also create more problems in both the short and long term. It’s always a good idea to do your homework and fully understand what you’re buying; but if you don’t know what to look for, the process can quickly start to feel tedious.
Of course, not all used car purchases will be the same, so I asked three car experts what they think is the most important thing to consider before buying a used car.
Consider your finances
“Before you start looking at used vehicle inventory, it’s important to figure out how much you can realistically afford,” says Mark Scholl, executive vice president of operations and retail sales at Montway Auto Transport . “If you’re thinking about financing, start by determining the amount of money you want to invest, as well as current interest rates and the length of the loan,” he says. “Doing this homework ahead of time will give you a clear idea of the cars that will fit your budget.”
With prices for used electric vehicles falling, Scholl says 2024 is a good time to consider whether it makes sense for your lifestyle and budget. “While some electric vehicles may have a higher initial purchase price and lower maintenance costs, they can save you money in the long run,” he notes.
Also consider whether you can afford a car that is still under the manufacturer’s warranty or is a certified pre-owned vehicle, says John Albert, partner and vice president of JKR Advertising & Marketing . “[This way] you get a little more peace of mind when you buy,” he tells me. “This gives you time, however long the warranty remains, to catch any problems that may arise and fix them before the warranty expires.”
“It’s also a good idea to find out how much labor goes into the machine you have in mind,” says Albert. “You might be shocked at how much more luxury cars have to be repaired than their non-luxury counterparts,” he notes. “This will help you avoid an unpleasant surprise in the future.”
Consider your mileage
When comparing cars, Scholl encourages used car buyers to take a fresh look at mileage. “While a low-mileage car may seem like the best option, that’s not always the case if it’s not properly maintained,” he explains. “When you compare a low-mileage used car to a new one, the savings are significant. For example, the price of a lightly used car with a few thousand miles on average is about 11% lower than the price of a brand new model.”
Consider the car’s history
Whether a used car is being sold by a dealership or a private seller, be sure to request a vehicle history report.
If the seller can’t provide a report, Hunter Brabham, auto modification and maintenance specialist and category manager for CarParts.com, suggests asking them for the vehicle identification number (VIN) and ordering your own report. You can get a vehicle history report from the National Vehicle Title Information System and from companies like CarFax, AutoCheck and VinAudit, although you may have to pay a fee of $25 to $40 to do so.
“The information [in the report] can reveal previous accidents, ownership history and maintenance records, helping you decide if the vehicle is a smart purchase,” says Scholl. The report will also tell you if the vehicle has ever been analyzed. “You can also contact the National Insurance Crime Bureau to find out if the car has ever been stolen,” says Brabham.
Although vehicle history reports are not always 100% accurate, Albert emphasizes how important it is to insist on it. “Some states will even tell you the name of the previous owner if you buy from a dealer—contacting them is another potentially good source of information,” he adds.
When purchasing from a private seller, Scholl recommends asking them:
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Why are you selling the car?
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How long have you owned it?
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Have you done any aftermarket upgrades?
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Do you have a clear title?
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Can I take my car to a mechanic for an inspection?
If you’re buying a car from a previous owner, Brabham also recommends asking for maintenance records and finding out if there have been any recent problems that need to be fixed.
“Besides the car itself, take the time to research the make and model and whether it ranks highly on things like durability or low maintenance costs,” says Scholl. “Consumer Reports and Kelly Blue Book are trusted resources that can help buyers find vehicle ratings, expert ratings, customer reviews and more,” he explains.
You should also research common problems specific to the make and model and check if there are any recalls on the vehicle. “Visiting online forums and owner groups is a great way to find out what common problems other car owners are experiencing and what it takes to fix them.”
Finally, Scholl advises asking the seller if the car has been flooded and, if possible, checking the title. “When a dealer tries to resell a car, the title must indicate whether the car is a salvaged vehicle, which means it was in a major accident or natural disaster,” he explains. “If you suspect your vehicle has been flooded, check under the seats and in the trunk for rust, dirt or mildew odors.”
Consider the condition of the car
Before you make an offer, Scholl advises thoroughly inspecting the car, both inside and out. “Look for signs of rust, paint damage and uneven tire wear, which may indicate alignment problems,” he says. “Look under the hood and check for leaks or unusual engine noise.” You may also consider taking the vehicle to a local repair shop for a pre-purchase inspection. “This usually only requires about an hour of work and can reveal problems that can only be seen by putting the car on a lift,” says Brabham.
As well as helping you determine if the car is right for you and your lifestyle, Brabham recommends taking it for a test drive as it will also give you the opportunity to see warning lights and hear warning sounds you might otherwise hear. miss. “Try to choose a route with side streets, hills and highways to get a feel for how the car will perform in your everyday life,” says Scholl. “Check your acceleration, steering and brakes and make sure you have good visibility.”