Article provided by CARPROOF
Maybe it’s your first used car buying experience or maybe you’re a seasoned expert. Maybe you’re buying it from a dealer, or maybe it’s from a private seller. Whatever your situation, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help make the process as easy and safe as possible.
Know where to look for a used car
There are lots of resources available that make finding a used car easy – like online listings, consumer reports, printable buying guides, dealership websites and public auctions. Check out places like autoTRADER.ca, Kijiji.ca and Used.ca to help you get started.
Make the most of your test drive
The test drive is your chance to get behind the wheel and see how the car drives and handles on the road. Plan a familiar route and test actions you would typically do; hit the brakes, put it in park, take a corner, accelerate, merge and change lanes. Get a feel for the car’s accessories and ensure they work.
Find out what’s happened in the vehicle’s past
A vehicle’s history impacts its value and safety. A CARPROOF Vehicle History Report will give you the vehicle’s accident history, recall status, lien status, registration history and more. Get this info before you buy to make sure you get a safe car at a fair price.
Get a pre-purchase inspection
Taking the car to a mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection is a great way to get some added peace of mind that the car is safe and in the same condition that the seller claims. A mechanic can help pinpoint any existing problem areas, and highlight issues that could likely occur in the future. This information is critical and can help provide negotiation leverage.
Ask the right questions
Every situation will call for different questions, and some will just come up as the conversation and negotiations develop, but there are some things that every used car buyer will want to know.
For more information and resources including a test drive checklist, list of questions to ask and VIN decode tool, check out CARPROOF’s comprehensive Used Car Buying Guide.