If you are looking for a good quality vehicle without a higher price tag, a used car is the best option. The difference between spending a lot of time and money at the repair shop and carefree driving is all in knowing what to look for. Buying a used car can be confusing, with a lot of things to put into consideration. Remember that the best used car is not necessarily the cheapest that you can get. If the vehicle has poor fuel efficiency and needs hefty upkeep work every now and then, then your finances might be in for a bumpy ride. A used car can either be a blessing or a nightmare.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Dealership financing that is too good

Many dealerships are determined to make the car financing process easier for you. Be cautious of car financing that presents a car loan with an interest rate that is much lower than market rates. Special financing offers usually carry a load of big down payments and a high APR, which can turn into a big fiscal responsibility in the future. Alternatively, you can remortgage your home with Hero Broker to buy a car.

Vehicle history report

A vehicle history report can help you see any title problems, service points, and previous accidents as well as ownership history. The history of the vehicle is important when buying a used car. You can also find out if it has any unsettled car finance, whether the car is recorded stolen, or if it has previously been written off. Make sure that the VIN matches what is in the titles and records.

Review the window sticker

Most laws require car dealers to post a buyer’s guide in every used vehicle that is for sale. This is usually by attaching the guide to a window. The guide must contain information like the price of the car, its warranty, among others. This guide can overrule any contrary provisions; this means that the car dealer must honor the information that is on the window sticker.

Inspecting the exterior

Regardless of who you are buying from, always check the vehicle carefully and, when possible, take it to a mechanic for a complete inspection.

• Body condition: Walk around the car and check for any scratches, dents as well as rust. Additionally, take note of the body panels; check for misaligned or big gaps, which can be a sign of messy assembly or a sloppy repair. Minor ornamental faults are no reasons for concerns, but rust is. You should also inspect the wheels, the rocker panels under the doors, and the door bottoms. Also, examine any rubber seals for tearing.
• Glass: Look carefully to see if the glass has cracks or even poked areas. Keep in mind that cracks on the windscreen can worsen and result in expensive repairs.
• Suspension: Check to see if the shock absorbers are functioning properly. If they are, the car should bounce just once and not up and down.
• Tires:  Check the tires for any wear and tear. Feathering and uneven wearing could indicate a lousy alignment that can be caused by worn steering components. Always remember that tires without treads and bad alignment can be a driving threat.

Inspect the interior

You will be spending most of your time inside your car, so the interior matters. Check to see if the inside has any odor. A musty, mildew smell can be an indication of water leaks. Lift the floor mats to check for any dampness. Note that some odor can prove hard to get rid of.

• Seats: The fabric should not be ripped or badly worn. Also, make sure that the seats are functional and can be adjusted.
• Air condition: Check to see if the air condition is functional.
• Check the mileage: Buying a car with a very low mileage doesn’t mean that it is the best. Make sure to ask the dealer what the purpose of the car was. The distance can sometimes indicate the age of the vehicle.

Test drive

A test drive is one of the best ways to know if the car is fully functional, therefore you should make all the efforts to take it on the road. Make sure to plan your route and out the car to different paces to test the maneuverability. If possible, try parallel packing to check for any blind spot the car may have.

Final Words

There are many things you should check when buying a used car. You should be wary of malfunctioning engine lights and stubborn steering gear. Once you are done with your inspections, write down what you have realized that seems problematic and mention that to your mechanic when you bring it to inspection. Look for a good repair shop to add value to your car and make it more comfortable.