A Contributed Post: Top Tips for Buying an Environmentally Responsible Used Vehicle

Used doesn’t mean “worn down.” It does not mean “obsolete.” And most of all, it doesn’t mean “environmentally destructive.” Used can be as new as a car that was hardly driven and is last year’s model. People sell or trade in their cars for many reasons. They could have run into financial problems. A death could have occurred. Your dream car is out there, and you can probably buy it at a discounted price because it was “used”. The more wear and tear, the bigger the discount.

1. Know the Value of the Car

The only difference between buying a used car and a new one is that you must search for them. There are many amazing used cars for sale for you to choose from. Know the car, know how much similar cars have sold for (used) as well. Knowing how much you should expect to pay will help you negotiate later.

2. Know Your Financing Beforehand

Similarly, you should know your own financing options before you go. Knowing your financing and what the bank is willing to give you for a loan is not only necessary, it’s smart. If you buy directly from someone else for a car, you can’t pay for in cash you will need to know the financing beforehand. If you buy through a dealership, then you can negotiate a better price.

3. You’ll Still Need Car Insurance

No matter whether you are buying used directly from the previous owner or from a dealership, you need car insurance.

4. Get a Vehicle History Report, If Possible

Every car has its history. Knowing the accidents a car has been in is a good way to check how much damage has been inflicted on it.

5. Check the Car

This is for when you buy directly from another owner. There are a lot of damages, problems, and issues that can be hiding in a car that you won’t find in a vehicle history report. This would be because the accident wasn’t recorded. If it wasn’t recorded, then there is no way to know what happened to it, or if any problems were fixed. That is why you should it inspected.

6. Always Negotiate

There is always a better price to be had. Knowing the base value of the car is a great way to have a higher leverage. This also applies to financing rates and other costs. Know what you should be paying beforehand, and stick to that number.

Buying a used car is a great way to save money, both up front and in the long run. Buying a used car, however, requires different and more thorough research. Generally, it is much better to buy your car from a dealership. When you buy from a dealership, you know that the car works, is in good condition, and that everything is legal and on the books. Buying directly from an owner can be cheaper, but it also comes with many complications that you need to look out and be prepared for.