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A used car that’s been well maintained can last for a few years or longer. An advantage of buying a used vehicle is that you can get a top of the line car significantly cheaper than you would if it was new. A disadvantage of buying used is that you potentially get stuck with someone else’s problem. Here are four tips that can help you avoid getting stuck. Keep in mind that you are buying used so there is never a guarantee.
Do your homework. Going into a dealership unprepared and not knowing what you want will get you stuck with something you will not be happy with. Figure out what is going to best suit your needs, a sedan, a mini-van, a truck or an SUV. Once you have done that look at ratings, any recalls, reviews, cost of maintenance, gas usage, book value and the cost of insurance. Keep in mind, just because a car is cheaper, does not mean it is a better deal. There is a reason it is being sold cheap.
Check the car history report. They are generally offered at a major dealership, but maybe not at an independent dealer or private seller. Ask for it if it is not offered. With a private seller you are probably going to have to buy that yourself if you want to see it. A car history report will not be fail proof but it will alert you to any major problems that the car has had in the past.
This is the more important tip of the four. Buy that extended warranty. It covers big ticket items, like the transmission and motor. It is not going to cover the small stuff like belts, tires, or seals. Not all used vehicles can be covered by a warranty and you still need to maintain the vehicle. However, you can purchase a used car and still have a reliable ride.
