What to Look For When Buying a Used Car

There are many advantages to buying a used vehicle, such as a lower sticker price, less depreciation, reduced insurance costs, and few to no surprise fees. If you want to purchase a pre-owned vehicle for the first time, it is natural to wonder what the process involves. To help you know what to look for when buying a used car, review this guide from Anchor Auto Outlet! We are here to help make your pre-owned car buying experience a fantastic one. Feel free to browse our used car inventory, as we offer a diverse selection of models, including classic vehicles!

Buying a Used Car From a Dealer: Some Key Tips

To streamline the pre-owned vehicle buying process, there are a few steps to take. Check out what our team suggests to ensure you purchase the right car for your driving needs in Raleigh and the surrounding areas:

• Establish a Budget: In addition to determining what you can afford to spend on a used car, think about the true cost to own the vehicle. Consider gas and toll prices, maintenance and repair costs, insurance expenses, and your monthly auto loan payment. By figuring out what you can afford, you’ll avoid purchasing a vehicle that taxes your wallet and causes serious financial stress.
• Keep Certain Factors in Mind: The right used car needs to meet more than your budget expectations. Ideally, it should feature a relatively low mileage number and come with vehicle history and maintenance reports. The price should also be reasonable, especially when compared to what the car and similar vehicles are going for on sites like KelleyBlueBook and Edmunds.
• Apply For Financing: Obtaining pre-approval early in your used car buying journey contributes to an anxiety-free experience. It gives you more negotiating power to get a better rate and helps avoid upsell issues, such as vehicle add-ons you don’t want or need.
• Go For Test Drives: Test-driving used cars provides that “real feel behind the wheel.” Much like buying a house, going for a test drive offers an up-close look at your potential investment, including any issues it might have.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Asking the right questions before buying anything of significance is strongly recommended, because it helps you truly understand what you can expect. So what to ask before buying a used car at a dealership close to Cary? Review our suggested questions and remember, any dealer that balks at the following should be avoided!

• Is there a maintenance history report?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Are the car’s amenities and features functional and in good condition?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Are there any current recalls on the car?
• Can I take the car to an auto technician for an inspection?
• Do you have the title available?
• Is the ownership history available?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage number?
• Is the car under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?

Learn About What to Look For When Buying a Used Car from Anchor Auto Outlet

Whether you have more questions about what to look for when buying a used car or are ready to start browsing now, Anchor Auto Outlet is here! We pair drivers throughout Durham and the surrounding communities with the quality used cars, SUVs, and trucks they need, and are always here to answer questions! Call 919-651-0051 or send us a message online today to get started. Our team also invites you to learn more about us and read the latest customer reviews!