Cars are some of the most significant purchases you’ll make, so consider your choices carefully. Used cars are normally more affordable than new cars, but they typically don’t come with warranties. Doing your due diligence before parting with your money will help you avoid the lemons. Look out for the following features on your used car search.
All Accessories Working
It might seem obvious, but you should check that everything in your used car works correctly. A test drive is the perfect opportunity to try everything out. Don’t just test the accessories you need for safe driving. This is the time to ensure absolutely everything works as it should.
Check the radio, and listen to make sure all speakers work. Test the air conditioner and heater to make sure they’re cooling and heating effectively. Bring a CD to play if the car has a CD player. If the car has Bluetooth, try to connect your smartphone. It’s also smart to test-drive your used vehicle with a friend who can check that the lights work. Ask whether your headlights, brake lights, and indicators all light up as expected.
Price Compared to Average Transaction Price
When you’re buying used, a car manufacturer’s suggested retail price is of no use to you. That’s because cars depreciate substantially once they leave the lot. They depreciate further as the years pass. There is, however, a used car equivalent called the average transaction price. Many reputable websites list average transaction prices for each make, model, and year. Knowing the average transaction price helps you spot great deals and negotiate more effectively.
Tire Quality
Tires connect your car to the road, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. As they degrade, they can impact the way your car handles and brakes. New cars come with brand-new tires, whereas used vehicles generally don’t. Inspect each used car’s tires, and use the penny test to check the tread. If the tires have insufficient tread, negotiate the price down to cover the cost of new ones. Unevenly worn tread can also indicate a larger problem, such as a worn suspension or uneven tire alignment.
Free From Unusual Sounds and Smells
While the things you see in your used car search matter, don’t forget about your other senses. Unusual sounds and smells can alert you to potential problems. Pay attention to the way the car sounds during your test drive. Worn components or mechanical problems can cause clunking, grinding, squealing, and knocking sounds while you drive or brake.
Does anything smell amiss when you drive? Smelling gas, burning oil, and smoke are all big red flags. If you ignore these problems, they’re likely to cause more money in the long run. Keep searching for a car that doesn’t make your senses tingle.
Buying a used car can be a great way to secure a quality vehicle for a fraction of the cost of brand new. However, without a warranty for protection, you’ll rely on your own observations to make the right choice. Visit us today at Tom O’Brien Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram – Greenwood, and browse our great Used Car and Truck Inventory!
Image via jeep.com
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