Tips for Purchasing a Used Vehicle

Are you in need of a new vehicle but aren’t looking to drain your savings? Purchasing a used vehicle is one of the best ways to secure a reliable and new set of wheels without putting yourself into a large amount of debt. However, when it comes to buying a used vehicle, there’s more to know than just that you want a previously owned vehicle. 

From understanding the value of your money, safety, and overall cost, we’re here to help you better understand how to go about purchasing a new-to-you or used vehicle. 

Research is Key

Before you step onto a car lot to look at used vehicles, you’ll want to do some research. This allows you to have a better idea of what kind of vehicle you’re looking for, what safety features you want, and what your budget might be. Our experts at TLC Motors recommend looking into different makes and models, so you have a few options in mind when you start shopping. 

Certified Pre-Owned v. Regular Used Cars

When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you’ll often hear the terms used cars and certified pre-owned (CPO). These are two different things. CPO vehicles are usually newer used cars that have gone through even more thorough inspections and reconditioning by the dealership or manufacturer. They often have extended warranties and other perks. 

Traditional used vehicles might not be as new as CPO vehicles, but they still can be great options when you’re looking for a new-to-you car, SUV, or truck. They also have their own perks depending on the vehicle and where you purchase it from. 

Vehicle Age and Mileage

Always consider the vehicle’s age and how many miles it has. Low mileage is generally a desirable trait in used vehicles; if the vehicle is older, that might not be a worthwhile investment for you. 

A good rule of thumb that we recommend is that you should look foro vehicle that have driven an average of 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. This shows it was driven regularly and had regular maintenance.

Prioritize Safety

Driving can be dangerous, but getting a used car or truck that has great safety features can make you feel more at peace on the road. Some of the safest car models you might want to look for at a used car dealership are: 

• Subaru Outback (2013 and newer)
• Honda Accord (2013 and newer)
• Ford F-150 (2015 and newer)
• Toyota Camry (2012 and newer)

These are just a handful of safe vehicle options. Be sure to look into consumer reports and all safety features that come equipped with the vehicle that you’re interested in. 

Get a Vehicle History Report

Once you’ve figured out which vehicle, or two, that you’re interested in, make sure that you get a vehicle history report. At TLC Motors, we always provide these to our customers so you know everything there is to know about a specific vehicle’s history. This includes it’s service history, accident record, and owenrship history. 

Inspect and Test Drive

Never purchase a used vehicle without test driving and inspecting it first. Make sure you walk around the vehilce, look for any imperfections, make srue that all the features work, and that you like how the vehicle handles on the road. 

Consider Total Cost of Ownership

While used vehicles tend to be more affordable options for people, you’ll need to think about the overall cost of owning a used car. Some factors to consider when you’re determining your budget are: 

• Fuel efficiency 
• Maintenance requirements 
• Potential repair costs 
• Insurance costs 

Sometimes, a more expensive vehicle upfront might save you money in the long run. 

Negotiate Wisely

Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of the vehicle. Be realistic in your negotiations, but do some research on fair market values, and don’t feel pressured to buy if you’re not satisfied with the offer. 

Financing Options

For those who want to finance their new used car, check out financing options before visiting the car lot. This will help you find the best car loan for your situation so you know which used vehicles you should be looking at price wise. 

Check for Recalls

Before purchasing your new used vehicle, check for any recent or active recalls. You can do this by searching the VIN number on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website. If there are open recalls, you should make sure they have already been addressed or will be before you officially purchase the vehicle. 

Trust the Experts at TLC Motors

At TLC Motors, we understand that finding the perfect used vehicle is an exciting but sometimes stressful time. We’re here to help make the process as stressfree and smooth as possible for you. We’ll work with you to help you find a used car, SUV, or truck that suits your budget and preferences. 

We’ve been serving customers in Spartanburg, Boiling Springs, Roebuck, Inman, and the surrounding areas for years. You can trust us to help you find the perfect used vehicle for your lifestyle. Visit TLC Motors today to learn more.