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Top Questions About Shopping for a Used Car

A set of used car keys are shown on paperwork at a car dealership.

When it comes to used cars, more buyers are gravitating toward this option due to the outstanding selection of quality vehicles available at more affordable prices. When you’re shopping used, you’ll want to be sure to keep some important aspects in mind so that you’re able to find a vehicle that’s safe and dependable for your travels. At Columbus Auto Mall, we strive to provide our customers with some of the best options in the industry, all at reasonable prices. If you’re a little apprehensive about navigating the used car market, you’re not alone, so let us help by providing some helpful answers to some commonly asked questions.

What Are Some Things to Watch Out for When Buying a Used Car?

Although many dealerships, like Columbus Auto Mall, are stocked with high-quality options, this isn’t always the case on other used car lots. This is why it’s important to pay attention when shopping used. It’s always a good idea to look at a detailed vehicle history report before committing to a particular vehicle. If a dealership isn’t keen on showing you this information, this is a red flag, and you’ll want to take your search somewhere else. Once you find out more about a vehicle in question, it’s a good idea to perform a visual inspection of the vehicle, looking for rust or corrosion, frame damage, and anything else that appears to be damaged.

Take it for a test drive and pay attention to how it feels on the road. If it’s making a strange noise or pulling in a direction while you’re driving, it may need a repair or tune-up. You may also want to open up the hood and examine the engine. Chances are, if there’s a fluid leak, it’ll be noticeable, which means that this vehicle may have some issues underneath the surface. Inspect the tires, upholstery, and paint for any issues, and remember, what may seem small right now may cause big problems later on.

A row of cars are shown parked on the side of a city street.

What’s Good Mileage for a Used Car?

It’s been a long-standing belief that once a vehicle gets above 100,000 miles that it’s a risk, but today’s vehicles are completely different from those of the past. Often, vehicles can last hundreds of thousands of miles, especially if they’re well taken care of, so it’s important to prioritize regular maintenance. Many vehicles, like trucks, have a reputation for being able to last far past many other vehicles on the road, with some trucks averaging up to 200,000 miles without issue. The bottom line is that taking care of your vehicle is crucial. In taking care of it, it will take care of you by providing you with a safe and dependable ride, mile after mile.

What Are the Most Reliable Car Brands?

A handful of vehicles on the market are habitually found at the top of the list year after year when resale value is concerned. Resale value is generally dependent on the quality of the vehicle, as well as how reliable it is, which is what many shoppers are searching for in their vehicles. Currently, some of the most reliable brands include Toyota, Honda, Kia, Lexus, Acura, Buick, and Nissan. Plenty of other brands typically appear on this list, so it’s important to do your research and find the vehicle that meets your travel requirements while also providing a safe and dependable ride. With all of the helpful tools available, it should be easy to narrow down a model from a brand you can trust.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Used Car?

There’s evidence to suggest that certain times of the year are better than others when getting the best price for a used car. Studies often show that late fall and early winter will offer lower prices since many automakers are debuting their newest model years, meaning that older models receive a price cut. We advise that the best time to buy a car is when you need a better way to travel. It’s not recommended to keep your car when it’s not offering you a safe and reliable ride just because you believe you’ll save money later in the year. When you choose a reputable dealer, you’ll be able to find a quality car for a fair price, no matter what time of the year you’re shopping.

What Documents Are Required When Buying a Car?

It’s important to bring the proper documentation when shopping for a used car to avoid any hang-ups in the process. Proper identification is required, so be sure to have your driver’s license with you, as well as your current vehicle’s registration. Proof of insurance and your form of payment are also required if you’re putting money down on your new vehicle. It’s also a good idea to run a credit check so that you’re aware of your current credit status, but this isn’t a requirement, as the dealership will run one for you. In some cases, you may be required to show a recent utility bill or pay stub, so having these handy is also advised.

What’s the Difference Between Shopping at a Dealership and a Private Seller?

There are many ways to go about shopping for a used car; however, you’re taking a risk when you choose to go through a private seller. When you shop from a dealership, you have a much better selection, meaning that if one car doesn’t meet your needs, you have other options during your search. You can also view a detailed vehicle history report, especially when you partner with a reputable dealer. You may not get the same luxury when you go through a private seller.

It’s also a risk when you’re negotiating with a private seller. When you buy from a dealership, you have the tools at hand to know that you’re getting a fair price without worrying that you overpaid for your vehicle. It’s also helpful to know that many dealerships offer warranties and maintenance plans on used vehicles, which isn’t something you’ll be able to enjoy when buying from a private seller. All in all, if you want ultimate peace of mind, choosing to work with a dealership like Columbus Auto Mall is highly recommended.

A car salesman is shown handing a key to a customer sitting in a vehicle.

What’s the Difference Between Shopping at a Dealership Versus Online?

You can’t beat being able to see and experience a car in person, no matter how convenient online car-buying tools claim to be, which makes dealerships the top options for car shoppers. You also won’t get to negotiate the price of the vehicle like you’ll be able to do at a dealership since many online car dealers claim that the price you see is the price you get. If you want to be sure you’re making the right choice by being able to test drive the vehicle before purchasing it and negotiate a fair price, shopping used at a dealership is the right choice for many buyers.

Success When Shopping Used

To ensure maximum success when shopping for a used car, partnering with a dealership that has your best interests in mind is your first step. Here at Columbus Auto Mall, we make our customers a priority, offering exceptional vehicles for prices that are fair and affordable. It helps to be prepared when shopping for a car, and by keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to owning a vehicle you can trust. So, visit us today and browse our extensive used selection to find the car that will make your journey better than ever.

October 19th, 2022 by Evan Riley

Posted 01/01/2023 in Buying Used

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