If you’ve ever been in the market for a used car, you know just how stressful it can be. The expectation of getting something you like mixed with the risk of investing in a giant hole in your wallet can make for quite the emotional roller coaster. This is why we want to help you avoid all the drama. Consider this article as your personal checklist when looking for your next used car. Each tip allies whether you’re at a used car lot or Facebook Marketplace.
Consider The Mileage
This might go without saying – of course the mileage will affect the car’s value. But in some cases, the mileage can be just a number. For instance, you’ll want to consider how often you intend to drive this car. Lower mileage is always better, but 100K might be more feasible than you’d think if you don’t have a long daily commute.
Next, look into the make and model of the vehicle. Some cars tend to last longer than others, with multiple variables ranging from its engine, to computer systems and many other factors. You’ll never be able to fully anticipate all potential risks, but researching the most common issues for said make and model might narrow down some of your risks.
Review Its Fuel Economy
As with the mileage, the fuel economy will be vastly more important, depending on how often you intend to drive your car. While it might sound extreme at first, the price you’re paying for fuel on a monthly basis can really add up, especially if the car lasts you for 3-5 years. Just think about an extra $20 per month in expenses for 3 years – that’s a whopping $720! Consider whether you’ll be driving more on highways or residential areas, too as this is significant for certain types of cars.
Compare The Engine Type With Your Lifestyle
Naturally, the stronger your engine, the more your car will be able to handle. But as expected, you’ll be paying a premium for better, stronger engines. So just as with the other factors, you’ll have to weigh the cost of the investment vs what you’ll really need. We’re sure you know this, but just in case… if you’re planning on towing anything, don’t skimp on the engine.
Amenities
If you think this is entirely trivial because you just want something that gets you from point a to point b, you can skip this. But having even just a few bells and whistles can really change the experience you have with your car, especially if you drive often.Think to yourself “is this something I will enjoy (or at least appreciate) for up to a few years”?
Review The Car’s History
Even the best looking cars aren’t what they appear to be. Especially if the price seems ‘too good to be true’. So before potentially making a huge money-burning mistake, take a few days and spend $39.99 on a single Carfax report.
Carfax will outline major points in the vehicle’s history, like:
- past accidents
- major mechanical work, like engine and transmission replacements
- amount of past owners
- maintenance dates and records
Consider The Style
Again, if you’re just a “point a to point b” kind of person, this shouldn’t concern you much. But for the rest of us, the kind of car we drive kind of defines us. It’s not that we won’t drive a car that’s not to our liking, but more than we’d rather not if we can spare the extra few dollars. So really think to yourself – is this a car I’ll be somewhat happy and proud to drive for the next 3-5 years?
Weigh Its Safety Features
Safety is important and while some of the highest levels of safety features found on vehicles like Volvo, you might be surprised what more economically-priced cars have to offer beyond seat belts and airbags.
Check The Car’s Insides
Did the past owner(s) upkeep the car’s interior? This is really important, especially if you’re going to be driving this car for a while. Factors like:
- maintaining leather seats
- maintaining leather seats
- maintaining leather seats
- the reception on the radio
- are all things that, at the very least impact the value and potential joy you can get out of your used car
Finally: Weigh The Total Pros and Cons
With all of these factors considered, simply weigh the potential risks and rewards. Keep in mind there’s never a guarantee when buying a used car. It keeps some people up at night, while others find it to be part of the fun!
