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When you’re searching for wheels, don’t forget about certified used cars. Here are a few tips to help you in your search.
Affordability
First determine what type of product you can afford to buy. The cost of a vehicle includes more than the sticker price; include gas, insurance, maintenance and registration into your calculus to get the complete picture. When you have a figure established, resolve to stick to it – too many people end up with cars they can’t afford or don’t ultimately like because they’ve made an emotional decision.
Choices
There are a lot of automobiles out there to choose from – different makes and models with a host of options. Consider what you must have in your car and what would be nice, as well as what you don’t want. For example, air conditioning may be a must-have, while a standard transmission may be a must-avoid.
Research
When you’ve decided what you want and need in a car, start focusing in on specific makes and models. Though the Internet will be a valuable tool in your research, don’t be hesitant to ask friends and family members for their recommendations. Ask what they’ve been happy with or what they were disappointed in. After you’ve narrowed down your list to a few specific makes and models, the real investigative work will begin. You can find information about reliability ratings as well as market value information online and in your local library.
Shopping
The Internet can be a blessing and a curse for anyone in the market for a vehicle. On one hand, it provides a seemingly endless choice of options for the consumer. On the other hand, there are many opportunities for scam artists to take advantage of people prepared to part with a significant amount of money. Consider focusing your search on certified used cars.
History
When you find a car you’re interested in, get its vehicle history report to learn about its history. Vehicle history reports are sold by different companies and are based on the auto’s unique vehicle identification number (VIN). Important information is contained in the report; you’ll learn if the vehicle was declared a total loss by an insurance company, indicated by a salvage title. If the vehicle history report is negative, take a pass and keep looking.
Testing
If the vehicle history report checks out, contact the seller to take the automobile out for a test drive. During your test drive, consider how you drive your vehicle on a day-to-day basis. If you spend a lot of time on the interstate, get your choice out on the open road to see how it performs. If there are service records with the automobile, ask to see them to get an idea of the repair history; if the car has had significant work done, such as an engine overhaul, reconsider your choice.
Inspection
You won’t need an inspection if you’re choosing from certified used cars. A reputable mechanic should inspect your choice if you don’t choose a certified pre-owned automobile.
Negotiate
Negotiation doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’ve decided on a price you can afford, remind yourself you won’t be talked into buying more than you can afford. Decide on your limit and stick to it. Don’t walk into a negotiation tired or hungry, and be patient; negotiation can be a time-consuming process.
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