AutoNation USA's Tips for Buying a Used Car
At first glance, buying a used car might feel like a daunting task because the selection is so vast, and the price ranges are so different. And there are a lot of questions that may not always have a definitive answer, like what to look for when buying a used car, or how old is too old for a used car.
There are a lot of things to consider in just choosing the right car, and even then, the make, model, and specific history of the vehicle can affect the outcome. Then, there's the whole process of actually locating and financing a used car.
In this guide, we'll be offering helpful tips for buying a used car, and show you
how to apply them when you're ready to work with AutoNation USA's nationwide network of dealerships to find the
best used car for your lifestyle.
How to Buy a Used Car
The first step in buying a used car is understanding what type of vehicle your lifestyle
currently needs. AutoNation's Vehicle Research is a great place to start your research as it
offers lots of
buying guides and test drive reviews for just about every make and model that AutoNation USA dealerships
offer.
By learning about the features and capabilities of these new cars, you can work backwards to find
the same make and model that's just a few years older. Used cars may not have all of the same features of their
new versions, but they also don't have the same full price tag. All used cars at AutoNation USA dealerships
offer AutoNation One
Price, a market value, set, and fixed price. No more added stress over haggling, the price you see, is
the price, guaranteed.
Once you've settled on a vehicle category, manufacturer, or even specific model, you can use AutoNation USA's vehicle search feature to find used cars for sale near you.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Car
Some of the most important aspects to look for when buying a used car are its model year and total mileage driven. The average American driver travels about 13,500 miles per year in a car, so use that as a baseline to estimate if a used car has been excessively driven in a short amount of time. A high mileage used car could mean that you're closer to the manufacturer warranty expiring, even though it's only a couple of years old since it's whichever comes first, the mileage or time limit.
Another important detail to consider is if the used car has all of the features
and options that you desire. Even two cars of the same make, model, and year could have different engines,
interior trims, packages, or upgrades applied from the factory or by the dealership. This is your opportunity to
ensure that the used car has the performance, safety, and convenience features that are most important to you.
Where to Buy Used Cars
The best place to buy a used car is a reputable and trusted dealership, like AutoNation USA. There are a number of advantages when shopping for a used car at an AutoNation USA dealership near you, like an experienced and professional staff, a large inventory of vehicles, and convenient service support for routine car maintenance.
What to Ask When Buying a Used Car
When you've narrowed down your used car choices, and are close to making a buying decision, you may want to consider asking your sales representative these specific questions:
- What is the used car's maintenance and/or accident history?
- Did this used car pass a dealership certification program?
- What type of warranty is included with this used car?
- Are there connected services or complimentary maintenance programs that are transferable with this used car?
These questions will help you better understand if the used car is a good value, or if there are any unforeseen circumstances that it may have been involved in. It's becoming more common for complimentary maintenance programs to be passed on to the next owner, and manufacturer warranties are often valid as long as the used car is within the mileage or age limit from its original date of purchase.
Get pre-qualified for financing without impacting your credit score.
How to Finance a Used Car
In preparation for financing a used car, start with AutoNation's pre-qualification questionnaire to understand what type of auto loan you're eligible for. This quick and easy form lets you instantly see your used car financing options without impacting your credit score.
You may also want to request a free credit report from one of the three major credit bureaus to check for any errors or changes that need to be updated. Having the pre-qualification from AutoNation plus your own credit report can give you the confidence to shop for a car that you know you can afford.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buying a Car from AutoNation USA
What should I check before buying a used car?
Look for signs of wear and tear, check the mileage, inspect the vehicle history report, and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic.
Can I negotiate the price at a used car dealership?
Yes, negotiating is common at used car dealerships. It's advisable to research the market value of the car and be prepared to negotiate based on that information.
Are there any warranties provided for used cars?
Many used car dealerships offer warranties, either through the dealership itself or third-party providers. Ask about the terms and coverage details before making a purchase.
What documents do I need to buy a used car from a dealership?
Typically, you'll need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and payment method (cash or financing approval). The dealership will handle the title transfer and registration paperwork.
Can I test drive a used car before buying it?
Yes, test driving is essential when buying any car, new or used. It allows you to assess the vehicle's condition, comfort, and performance firsthand.
Should I get a vehicle history report for a used car?
Yes, obtaining a vehicle history report (such as Carfax or AutoCheck) can provide valuable information about the car's past ownership, accidents, and maintenance records.
What financing options are available for purchasing a used car?
Used car dealerships often offer financing options through their own finance departments or partnerships with banks and credit unions. It's wise to compare interest rates and terms to find the best deal.
