Yusra3
VIP Contributor
Purchasing a used vehicle requires research and diligence to score a reliable ride without inheriting someone else’s problem. Use these expert tips to avoid lemons and find the best deals:
1. Run a vehicle history report to uncover past accident damage, flood history, odometer rollbacks, lemon law buybacks and other red flags using the car’s VIN number before buying. Use Carfax or Autocheck which offer affordable unlimited monthly plans.
2. Take any prospects for a thorough test drive of at least 15-20 minutes including highway speeds, sharp turns and rough pavement. Listen for odd sounds and check dashboard warning lights that signal issues.
3. Hire a trustworthy mechanic to inspect the car’s major systems like the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical components and tires. Diagnostic tests may catch issues not noticeable from a standard test drive. This small upfront cost saves huge headaches later.
4. Check all functions including heating and cooling, locks, windows and technology features. Make sure headlights, blinkers, wipers and seat adjusters all work properly. Test drive at night to verify lights.
5. Confirm service records match the car’s mileage and age. Evidence of diligent oil changes, inspections and maintenance from the previous owner is essential. Gaps in history could signal neglect.
6. Research common problems with that specific make and model online. Knowing what typically fails due to poor design or defective parts helps tailor your inspection.
7. Compare prices for similar vehicles listed locally and nationally using Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book’s fair value ranges based on year, mileage and trim level. This prevents overpaying.
8. Meet sellers at their home when possible so you can develop a rapport and evaluate how they maintained the vehicle based on neighborhood condition, other vehicles owned, etc. Public meetings lack this insight.
9. Close the purchase only when fully comfortable without pressure. Don’t believe claims that other buyers are eager or an opportunity is too good to pass up. The right car at the right price will come along again if uncertain. Trust your judgement!
1. Run a vehicle history report to uncover past accident damage, flood history, odometer rollbacks, lemon law buybacks and other red flags using the car’s VIN number before buying. Use Carfax or Autocheck which offer affordable unlimited monthly plans.
2. Take any prospects for a thorough test drive of at least 15-20 minutes including highway speeds, sharp turns and rough pavement. Listen for odd sounds and check dashboard warning lights that signal issues.
3. Hire a trustworthy mechanic to inspect the car’s major systems like the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical components and tires. Diagnostic tests may catch issues not noticeable from a standard test drive. This small upfront cost saves huge headaches later.
4. Check all functions including heating and cooling, locks, windows and technology features. Make sure headlights, blinkers, wipers and seat adjusters all work properly. Test drive at night to verify lights.
5. Confirm service records match the car’s mileage and age. Evidence of diligent oil changes, inspections and maintenance from the previous owner is essential. Gaps in history could signal neglect.
6. Research common problems with that specific make and model online. Knowing what typically fails due to poor design or defective parts helps tailor your inspection.
7. Compare prices for similar vehicles listed locally and nationally using Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book’s fair value ranges based on year, mileage and trim level. This prevents overpaying.
8. Meet sellers at their home when possible so you can develop a rapport and evaluate how they maintained the vehicle based on neighborhood condition, other vehicles owned, etc. Public meetings lack this insight.
9. Close the purchase only when fully comfortable without pressure. Don’t believe claims that other buyers are eager or an opportunity is too good to pass up. The right car at the right price will come along again if uncertain. Trust your judgement!
