All posts tagged used car buying

5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Family Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2020/05/28 in Used Autos & Trucks with Comments Off on 5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Family Car
used autos

New cars have some glamour, but can be extremely expensive. If you can find a used car that’s been well-cared for, you can save a lot and enjoy worry-free travel. However, there are things you need to carefully check out before buying a used car.

Do A Walk Around

Walk around the car and look to make sure it is level. Problems with leveling can be an indicator of bad shocks or struts. These crucial tools can lead to a lot of bouncing, a pull on the steering wheel as you try to drive straight, and can wear out your tires quickly. You need all four tires on the road and for shock absorbers to move freely to avoid the risk of a wreck.

Review the Service Records

The glove box should contain the manual. Review this book for any service records logged in the back. If you’re buying your car from the selection of used cars in Gillette Wyoming or your particular locale, check in with the facility mechanic to determine what they found when they checked out the car.

If the dealership doesn’t have a mechanic, or if you’re buying from a private seller, take it to a mechanic for a thorough assessment. Be ready to pay for this checkup, as it could be the best money you spend on a car you choose not to buy. Finally, if the private seller won’t let you take the car to be checked out, walk away.

Get Under the Hood

When checking the car for level, you might as well get on the ground and look for fluid. Green fluid is a radiator leak, while red fluid is usually engine oil. Open the hood and check the radiator fluid level. Pull the engine dipstick and check to make sure the oil is clean. Take a look at the brake fluid level. Finally, sniff. Cars that have been run too hot due to thermostat problems or just because the oil was allowed to run too dirty for too long can have a burned or smoky odor. It’s not a sign to walk away, but you’ll want to get it checked out.

Check the Tire Tread

Take apenny out of your pocket and put Mr. Lincoln upside down in the tire tread. If you can see the top of his head, the tires are too worn to be safe. Tire tread is critically important. Bald tires can’t clear rainwater, so your risk of a skid can get very dangerous, very quickly. You need tires with some grab to be safe.

Test Drive

When you take the car for a test drive, go easy and let the car warm up. Once it’s running smoothly, hit the brakes hard. If you hear a squeak, whistle or clunk, the brakes will need work. Punch the gas pedal to check acceleration. If there’s delay, the injectors may need attention, or the timing of the engine may be off.

If it’s a standard transmission, work carefully through the gears. Make sure you can easily get into reverse from a stopped position. Slip your shoes off and check the friction point on the clutch. You want the clutch to engage at the top of the pedal, not by the carpet. If the clutch engagement point is low, a novice may have worn it excessively or damaged the transmission. Downshift through the gears to check for slop or misalignment.

Conclusion

A good used car can be a great investment, but you need to do your homework. Visit a lot to get a good sampling of what’s available in your price range and seek the help of a qualified mechanic for a final check.

image credit: envato.com

New vs Used: Why a Used Car Will be Easier on Your Finances

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/12/12 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on New vs Used: Why a Used Car Will be Easier on Your Finances

Shopping for a car can be both exciting and stressful at the same time. Whether you are upgrading to next year’s model or putting the old car to rest, buying another car can be a tough experience when you don’t know what to look for.

There normally are two options: buying new, or buying used. Buying new usually involves taking out loans, getting credit approved, and signing a lease for the next several years. While this process works for some, there are several reasons why buying a used car is better and easier financially in the long run.

Used Cars Are More Expensive For No Reason

While the phrase "you get what you pay for", normally rings true, it is not always so when buying a new car. The price of a new car is inflated tremendously compared to used cars, even in just a few years difference. When looking at the cars side to side, there is hardly a difference to constitute thousands of dollars in price, so why buy new, other than to have the latest and greatest for show.

When comparing the features between model years, there usually are only minute differences in trim or design. It is a safe bet to say that used cars still contain these features, just without the flashy, extraneous options of a new car. A used car will run a fraction of the price for just as much car. Another factor to consider is insurance. The cost of insurance for a brand new car is more than any other comparably priced vehicle.

It is much cheaper to invest in a cheaper, used car, paying less money for the car itself and for insurance over the next several years. When looking for a vehicle, dealerships like Milton Ruben Toyota have a large selection of certified used vehicles fit to save you money and provide you with safe transportation.

Used Cars Have More Documentation

Most manufacturers guarantee their new cars to be almost flawless and lack problems in the warranty span, but a new model year vehicle with different options has a different formula for how the vehicle operates. It may undergo rigorous testing in the factory, but it is unknown what problems it will obtain in its span of life. Used cars have had their problems documented over time, and people have been trained in ways to recognize potential problems before they come.

Cars will eventually need servicing, whether it is new or used. It is safe to say a used car has more actual usage information on it than a new car. After the warranty runs out on a new car, the repairs are much more expensive than older cars, due to the new technology used on the car. It is wiser to invest in a less expensive, older vehicle, and spend the required money to bring the vehicle up to appropriate maintenance standards.

Used cars are an excellent way to save money in daily finances. The cost of insurance combined with new car payments can sometimes be overwhelming. Shopping used can save you money in the beginning and in the long run of your vehicle ownership.

Factors Which You Need To Take Into Consideration When Buying A Used Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/05/20 in Used Autos & Trucks with Comments Off on Factors Which You Need To Take Into Consideration When Buying A Used Car

Buying a car is a daunting task. A used car is comparatively cheaper than a new car. You can save a great deal of money if you opt for a used car. An HPI report will inform you about the car’s history and the repairs which have been done on the vehicle. At a lower price you will be able to buy a nicer model. Registration fee for a used car is lower than that of a new car. Insurance for a used car is cheaper than insuring anew and expensive vehicle.

In this primer some vital tips are shared which will help you to buy a used car.

  • If the car which you intend to buy has run for 15,000kilometerrs to 50,000 kilometers it is a good buy. Check the car for signs of accident. A reliable dealer will conduct tests which will help you to ascertain the history of the car. Door panels can show signs of accident.
  • It is important that you check the engine. Check the petrol consumption and air conditioning of the car. Check the exterior of the car for scratches and damage. Make sure that the model year mention in the registration papers matches the year of manufacturing. You can use a second hand car for at least 3 to 4 years.
  • When you buy a used car you can maximize your savings. If you have set your mind on buying a used car make sure that you opt for a popular model which is in presently in production. A popular model will be easy to sell and depreciate much lesser over the years. Buy a used car from a large manufacturer who provides strong back-end service.
  • Do your homework well before buying a used car. Before you make the purchase read on the recent trends in the auto industry. Plan a budget and figure out how much you want to spend on the car. It is a wise idea to survey the market before buying a used car. This will give you an idea of which vehicle you will be able to afford within your budget.
  • It is essential to check the history report of the car. Conducting an HPI check is very important. It will provide you information on the correct mileage and background of the car. Make sure that the paperwork of the car is up-to-date and complete. This will be of great help when the car is transferred to your name.
  • Conduct a test drive is very important. You can learn about the used car by carrying out a test drive. Check out for unusual vibrations in the car. Ensure that the brakes are smooth. Go for a drive on a bumpy road to make sure that there are no unusual vibrations and noise in the car. Take the car to a mechanics and inspect the underbody of the car.
  • Check all pros and cons before finalizing the deal. If you are not happy with the price you can walk out. Do not fall into traps of a Teflon coating or purchase accessories which the dealer may try to sell to you. After the deal is closed drive away with a car which is insured. All repair work must be carried out before the car is delivered to you.

When buying a used car your goal should be to find a well-maintained car which is in good condition. Value of a used car will depend on its condition and certain other factors. A car with strong reputation and reliability will not lose its value quickly. You must check the mileage and safety ratings before purchase.

Author Bio: Camille Gomez works in a private bank and wants to buy a used car. She has contacted a dealer who is offering an HPI check free. Before buying a used car she has decided to survey the market and check the trends.