Close 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Used Car From a Dealership
There are things to keep in mind when buying a used car. Learn the biggest mistakes you can make when buying a used car from a dealership and how to avoid them.
Today's car market is a tricky one for buyers.
The average cost of a new car in today's market is nearly $50,000, so if you're looking to buy on a budget, your best bet is to get something used. Buying a used car gives you more options, but if you're going to get a car that stands the test of time, it's best to still buy from a dealership.
When buying a used car from a dealership, it's important to know what not to do. In this post, we're going to discuss some of the mistakes that a lot of used car buyers make when they buy from a used car dealership and how you can avoid them.
There are countless benefits to buying from a dealership, like protection, warranties, and flexible payments. If you're not careful, there are also pitfalls, so keep reading and get the best tips for buying a used car
1. Not Thinking About Financing
You should always try and have your finances sorted out before you buy a used car. A decent used car dealership will have financing options available to you when you arrive, but it's better to have this lined up in advance.
It is often thought that dealership financing won't have the most advantageous interest rates With Taylor Hyundai, this is not the case. We have over 50 banks available in the Augusta area, and 9 times out of 10, our rates are lower than theirs. We also have the ability to negotiate rates for our clients.
Doing some research on your local banks' rates before you go to the dealership allows you to shop around and get the best possible loan for your financial situation.
It also allows you to zero in on your budget before you buy a car, which prevents you from spending more than you have. This makes the negotiation process much easier and really streamlines the entire process.
2. Neglecting the Test Drive
You've probably done a bit of research to narrow down the selection to a few vehicles that you really want. While research is an important part of the process of buying used cars, you should never do it in lieu of an actual test drive. Even at the most reputable dealership, a test drive is absolutely necessary.
Not only will a test drive help you figure out whether or not you really enjoy driving a car, but it helps you identify any real issues. Some dealerships will try to mask problems with the car, but if you know your stuff, you'll be able to spot it during the test drive.
Here are a few of the main things to think about:
- Is the car comfortable to drive?
- Does the car accelerate normally?
- Are the brakes sensitive enough?
- Do you hear any unusual noises while moving or at rest?
- Are there any visibility issues that prevent a safe ride?
You can also make a list of questions to ask the salesperson about the car. The more you can find out during the test drive, the better.
3. Buying the First Car You Try
You may love the first car you test drive the second you get in the driver's seat, but that doesn't mean your search should end there. You should always have a few different cars in mind, then test drive all of them.
Cross-checking several different vehicles in your price range will give you a better sense of what your options are. If you agree to buy the first car you see, you're not doing your due diligence, which makes you vulnerable to dud vehicles.
4. Shopping Only On Monthly Payment
The first figure you'll probably look at when car shopping is how much your monthly payments are going to be. While it's important to be able to afford your vehicle on a month-to-month basis, you could be leaving money on the table by exclusively shopping this way.
Often, lower monthly payments result in a longer payment term, which means more money is spent on interest. If you can afford it, consider building larger monthly payments into the deal so that you can pay the car off quickly and own it outright.
5. Not Doing Pre-Research
Earlier, we mentioned how you should be doing your own research before you start test-driving used vehicles. It's impossible to understate how important this is; you need to learn all you can about a particular make and model so you know what you're getting yourself into.
A small amount of pre-research will tell you whether a car is prone to costly mechanical issues or if it's bad on gas. Avoiding a lemon will save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs over the lifetime of the car. Your dealer isn't setting out to sell you a dud, but it can happen.
6. Neglecting a Vehicle History Report
In addition to knowing about the make and model, you should also order a vehicle history report from the dealership. This will tell you everything you need to know about that specific vehicle and what it's been through.
If it's had any major accidents or repairs, a vehicle history report will find out. If it's had more owners than initially thought, a vehicle history report will unearth that as well.
It's also helpful to have a third-party mechanic look at the car before you agree to buy it. A seller may offer to pay for this, but even if you pay for it out of pocket, it could save you a lot of money down the road.
7. Not Doing a Trade-In
When buying a car at a dealership, you'll likely have the option to do a trade-in with your current vehicle. If you don't do this, you'll be left to try and sell your old vehicle independently, which can be time-consuming and potentially fruitless.
You have to be realistic when you're doing a trade-in, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't get a decent deal. Do some research and have your car appraised by a third party, then see if the dealer can come close to the appraisal.
Buying a Used Car From a Dealership In Augusta
Now that you know what mistakes to avoid when buying a used car from a dealership, you can get the perfect vehicle for your needs. If you're in Augusta, GA, look no further than Taylor Hyundai for your next car.
We've got a wide variety of Hyundai Certified Used Vehicles and an inventory of other makes and models as well. Contact us today with any questions you have about our used vehicles. When you're ready for a test drive, don't hesitate to visit us ASAP.