How to Buy a Used Car: Tips from the Car Insurance Guys
These days, buying a new car requires a lot of money. For those who are looking for another option due to financial distress, buying a used car can be a good bet. Of course, a used car, no matter how fancy and shiny, can have hidden downsides.
Here’s advice from some fine-tuned insurance professionals on how to go about the task of buying a used car.
8 Ways to Get a Good Deal on a Used Car
• Decide how much you can spend on the purchase
Before looking for a good used car, do a personal financial tally. Then, focus only on purchases you can afford, either through financing or a full payment method.
• Choose the right type of vehicle
Single people without children do not need a big car. On the other side of the coin, married people with children in tow could use a larger car. Recreational drivers, long-distance drivers, and city or highway drivers also have different needs. Evaluate your individual requirements and then buy the car that suits them.
• Consult prices and frequency of repair
Look online to determine how much you should pay for car makes and models based on year and usage. This search will also let you know which types of vehicles require less maintenance work and which types have fewer mechanical headaches.
• Learn about the car’s past
Research the history of a particular car by entering Vehicle Information Numbers. This will take you to a comprehensive report on past collisions, owners, and even recorded maintenance and repair jobs.
• Test drive the car by taking it for a spin
Drive your prospective car purchase on a calculated route that includes hills, potholes, curves, and road maneuvers. This way you will get an idea of what the overall drivability is like.
• Get the opinion of a professional mechanic
Include your favorite mechanic in the decision by hiring him to inspect the car for surface issues that a layman like you can’t spot.
• Use your price negotiation skills
Use the knowledge you’ve gained from all your research on the car to negotiate a price that fairly reflects its true value.
And last but surely not least
• Don’t forget car insurance
Before completing the purchase process, speak with an experienced independent insurance agent about insurance for the vehicle. After you bind the policy, sign the contract, pay, and you’re ready to go. Don’t worry about not having coverage on the way home!
Now that you have a new (used) car, take care of it with good maintenance practices and remember to keep driving safety a priority.
Happy driving!
