While the car-buying process is exciting, it’s one you don’t want to rush. Many drivers are so eager to get behind the wheel of their new ride that they make it official before they’ve fully checked out the car, which could result in a number of headaches later on.
Fortunately, this guide will reveal the biggest mistakes buyers make when purchasing a used car – so you know just what to avoid as you shop for a buy here pay here used car to call your very own.
Table of Contents
1 – Not Doing Your Homework Beforehand
You should never show up to a dealership unprepared. Instead, do some research before your first visit to avoid being taken advantage of and give yourself a clear idea of what to expect. If you’re interested in a particular make and model, use an online resource to find out its worth and average retail price. These resources can also tell you the vehicle’s reliability record, or more about other driver’s experiences with it. Keeping this information in mind while you shop and negotiate will help you score the best deal possible and ensure you’re getting the most out of your new ride.
2 – Not Completing a Thorough Test Drive
Rushing through your test drive – or not doing one at all – is by far one of the biggest mistakes you can make when buying a used car. A test drive is the only way to know how the car operates, so you’ll want to take your time and drive it in a variety of conditions. It isn’t a bad idea to take multiple test drives, either. This will give you the best idea of how the vehicle will run on a day-to-day basis.
Take it on the highway, main roads, and within residential neighborhoods to truly get a feel for its performance and handling. Notice how quickly it speeds up and slows down, and how smoothly it turns corners and brakes. In addition to driving forward, practice driving in reverse.
3 – Not Asking About the Vehicle’s History
Without the vehicle’s history reports, you have no idea what it has been through. These reports disclose a ton of information about the car’s past, including its damage history, previous owners, maintenance records, possible recalls, and more. The vehicle’s history will tell you whether it’s safe and reliable, making it absolutely necessary to review these reports before making it yours.
4 – Not Giving Yourself Time to Think it Over
Once you fall in love with a vehicle, you might be tempted to purchase it right then and there. However, a car shouldn’t be bought on impulse, and you should give yourself plenty of time to think it over. This will allow you to determine if the car fits your personal needs, driving style, and budget. Don’t be afraid to compare prices at multiple dealerships or walk away if you’ve decided the vehicle isn’t quite what you’re looking for.
5 – Not Getting it Looked at by a Mechanic
Some drivers perform their own inspection on their potential new vehicle, but it doesn’t hurt to have a mechanic take another look. In fact, you should. These professionals know just what to look out for, and can spot issues that you might have missed. They can also reveal the condition of the car, and determine if it contains a hidden, costly problem. Bring the written report with you to the dealership to use during your negotiation. Identifying these problems before you purchase the car can save you a substantial amount of time and money in the long run.
Visiting a Buy Here Pay Here Dealership Near You
Now that you know just what to avoid during the car buying process, it’s time to get started. To begin your car-buying journey, just search “buy here pay here car dealership near me” to find a car lot within your direct vicinity. Browse their online inventory, then visit the dealership in person to check out the vehicles for yourself.
These dealerships are unlike any other and offer in-house, buy here pay here financing that can get you on the road regardless of your credit score. Rather than making payments to the bank or other lender, you make direct payments to the dealership instead. Whether you’re wanting a car, truck, or SUV, a buy here pay here dealership will put you behind the wheel of a high quality, reliable used car for an unbeatable price.
