When you purchase your first vehicle, you may not have a lot to work with in terms of expense. But, let’s face it, sometimes you really don’t want to buy new when something used will do just fine. With that in mind, we’ve put together this blog post all about the best tips for buying used cars in chandler. We’ll cover how to find and identify a reputable dealership and explain how to get the best deal on your purchase.
What to Look For When Buying A Used Car
The biggest consideration is always price but there are also other things you should be looking at when searching for a reliable vehicle that has been repaired properly and maintained regularly. Here are some things to be on the lookout for when considering used cars:
Check the Odometer – It’s easy to see this one. The first thing you want to check is the mileage on the odometer. You’ll want to make sure that there isn’t something fishy going on with it (like an odometer rollback). A vehicle with a higher than average mileage should prompt you into looking at other things, such as body damage or poor repair jobs.
Examine The Undercarriage – An easy way to do this is by hopping in the vehicle and having someone else drive it off of a steep curb. If you look underneath, you’ll be able to spot any problems like rust or water damage.
Check The Engine – Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. It may be difficult or impossible to do this with cars that are on a lot, but if you can take it for a test drive, listen carefully while it’s in motion. A mechanic can tell you things that the visual examination might not reveal.
Test Drive It – When you take it out on the road, try to exaggerate your driving habits – hard braking, fast turns and such – to see how it handles and if you detect any problems with the powertrain or other issues.
Look For Repairs – If you can get in the shop with a mechanic, have them take a look at it in person. Really take the time to see what they have to say about the vehicle, and you may be surprised as to what you find.
Conclusion
Above all, you must be patient and thorough when shopping for a used car. You are going to have to rely on your instincts and the ability to trust what you hear from other people. If a deal is too good to be true, then it probably is. If you’re able to look at it yourself, then do so before making any kind of purchase. And remember, if you have any doubts or concerns, don’t buy. You want to live with the vehicle for several years and you can’t do that if there’s something fishy going on with it now or down the road.
