Four Questions To Ask Before You Buy A Used Car

Buying a used care requires a bit of research and work on your part, but if you are prepared, you can get a great deal on a vehicle. Before you agree to make a purchase, there are a few things you should ask your used car dealer. Use this guide to help make the right decision on your new-to-you car.

Is There A Warranty?

Some vehicles may be sold in as-is condition, while others may be backed by a warranty. In some cases, the dealer may offer an extended warranty you can purchase to cover your vehicle. Asking about any potential warranties can help you to determine if the used car is a good option for you. A warranty may cover basic repairs, or it may cover a wide range of services. Be sure to get the details on any warranty so you can determine what you will need to pay out of pocket and what will be covered by the dealership. If you purchase a certified pre-owned vehicle, you may qualify for bumper-to-bumper coverage as well as a few perks, such as roadside assistance.

Can I See The Vehicle Report?

A vehicle history report can tell you if a used car has been in an accident, if it's been damaged in a flood, and if there have been issues with the odometer. If the report shows that the car has a branded title, the previous owner's insurance company has given the vehicle a salvage title because it was written off as a total loss. This may lead you to look at a different vehicle instead of the one you were considering. Knowing what is in the vehicle's past can tell you whether or not that particular car is a sound choice.

What Is The Cash Price?

Buying a car with cash gives you a little bit of negotiation power during your purchase. Even though dealerships can make extra money by offering financing, paying in cash can eliminate a stack of paperwork for the dealer. Ask what the price is if you pay cash, and use your buying power as leverage to knock down the price a bit.

What Repairs Have You Performed On The Vehicle?

Dealerships will perform some repairs to make a vehicle easier to sell, and these repairs might even be good news for you. If the car has received a new engine, transmission, brakes or tires, these are things that you might not have to repair or replace anytime soon. Be sure to ask if any new equipment added to the car is covered under a warranty so you know you have coverage if these new parts fail.

Be confident when you visit your used car dealer and ask as many questions as you need to before you make your decision. Your salesperson should be patient enough to answer your questions and be willing to find the answers you need so you can buy without regret.

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