How to Find a Second Hand Car
People like to make jokes about used cars, but you can find great deals by buying "pre-owned." When you buy new, your car depreciates as soon as you drive it off the lot, but if you buy used, you take advantage of that depreciation. Before you buy a used car, take it to a mechanic you trust. It may cost you a bit of money, but it can save you huge expenses in the long run.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
How to Find a Second Hand Car
-
1
Find out what's for sale in a free local publication that specializes in used cars. You usually can pick these up on magazine racks in gas stations.
-
2
Use Websites such as Auto Trader. You type in your geographical area, your desired make and model, and the price range, and you're shown dozens of used cars for sale by dealers and private owners near you.
-
-
3
Stop by a used car lot. The listed prices may be somewhat high, but dealers are happy to barter--especially in tight economic times. Also, the used cars from a lot may come with a warranty, which can be a lifesaver.
-
4
Look at used cars offered by rental companies. They've often been treated gently and have less mileage than many other "pre-owned" cars.
-
5
Check out less traditional ways to shop for a used car. Estate sales can offer great deals; so can cars parked by the side of the road with a "for sale" sign in the window.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Before you buy a used car, research it on a website such as Edmunds.com. You'll find a wealth of information, including reviews and prices. When you're ready to buy a used car from a private owner, go together to the local DMV so you can make sure the title is on the up and up.
