Things You'll Need:
- Money
- Patience
- Know When To Walk Away
-
Step 1
When you're ready to buy a used car be ready to do some research. Know the type of car that you're looking for. Be sure you have something in mind you want. Such as a 4 door or a pick up truck.
-
Step 2
Now that you kind of have an idea of what you want research on what kind of payments you can afford. Calculate monthly payments, insurance, and maintenance you can afford.
-
Step 3
Through online classifieds and newspapers locate at least 10 different vehicles you want to see. Do not tie yourself to just wanting to see one car. By making it a point to see 10 different cars it will be easier to walk away from a deal you probably don't want because you'll other options waiting.
-
Step 4
When visiting a dealer or private seller. You are going to want to ask some important questions, like how many owners has the car had. The reason for selling the car. Look for any dents, or distinguishing marks on the car that were not already described. Ask for the condition of the car, including the engine, body, interior, handling, and tires. Ask what the mileage and get a general understanding of what kind of condition the car is in.
-
Step 5
Take the car for a test drive. Make sure the car feels right for you, handles good, and runs as it should. If the car is not performing as it should or if you have some concerns about how its driving make sure to bring them up to the seller.
-
Step 6
Make sure the car comes with a warranty. Be sure to read the fine print of the warranty and it clearly shows how long the warranty last. Sometimes warranties are based on mileage or time or both. Be sure you know what the warranty covers and its acceptable to you.
-
Step 7
If your car has no warranty be sure to let the seller know that you want to conduct an independent inspection of the car from a licensed mechanic before you purchase the car.
-
Step 8
Get a vehicle history report from an online agency and see what kind of conditions the car has been through. see if the car has been in any accidents, flooding, or the odometer has been rolled back.
-
Step 9
Find out how much that particular car is worth using Kelley Blue Book. Through here you will be able to input all the accessories the car has, the condition of the car, and any other specifics. Then you'll get a detailed value range from which to negotiate a platform.
-
Step 10
Negotiate, using your value range of the car. Make sure all negotiations are done before any paperwork is completed. When negotiating a car be sure you do the very low ball end of the value range. Sellers will often give in to your wants if they are desperate enough.
-
Step 11
Close the deal. If you buy your car from a dealerships make sure and read all of the contract terms and conditions since they do most of the handling of the paperwork. If you purchase your car from a private seller make sure to get the title of the car before leaving.
-
Step 12
Drive Your New Used Car.
