What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Finding the perfect used car in Gastonia can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, haven’t bought a car in a while, or you’ve had bad luck in the past, we can help. You can learn from the team at Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet to find out what to ask when buying a used car, and a few other tips, like what to put on your “used car checklist.” Explore more about the car buying process with the team at Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet today, and when you are ready to take any of the used cars in our inventory out for a test drive, just contact us today.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Car: How to Buy a Used Car

Buying a used car helps many Gastonia drivers save money, and often enjoy accessible technology. When you’re looking for the right used car for your commutes, you can find options such as those priced under $25k, certified pre-owned models, and other choices at Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet. Here’s some steps for how to buy a used car from a dealer like us:

• Set a Budget: Take time to consider the balance between cost to buy and cost to own. Be sure to factor in future repairs, new tires, routine maintenance, and if a car loan is needed to finance the used car. A tip to keep in mind, a monthly payment shouldn’t exceed 10% of your monthly income.
• Find the Right Used Car: There are a couple of factors you should consider when learning how to buy a used car. This is your “used car checklist,” meaning it should fit your budget, match your mileage expectations, and fit some of the key requirements like the vehicle history report.
• Test Drive and Inspect the Models: It can take determination to find the right used car that matches your style. Be sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic, and take it out for a test drive to verify the performance you’re taking on Concord-area roads.
• Used Car Financing and Other Fees: Once you’ve found a used car that works, take your time to explore your loan options, and be sure to factor in other fees and credits like state sales tax, registration fees, and the trade-in value of your previous vehicle. When completing the deal you’ll also want to make sure you’re covered with any applicable warranties and car insurance plans.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car in Rock Hill, SC

If you’ve already started the shopping process, you’ve probably seen that there’s a lot of variety. This leaves a lot of shoppers floundering, but if you know the right questions to ask it gets easier to narrow down the models that will work for your needs. This will also help you avoid costly repairs in the future. Here is what to ask when buying a used car:

• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?
• Would you drive this vehicle cross-country today? If not, why?

When you are making your “used car checklist,” or determining exactly what you are looking for, consider these questions and the specifics discussed in the previous section to help yourself better understand your wants/needs.

Learn More About What to Look for When Buying a Used Car at Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet!

When you are ready to start shopping for your very own used car, come visit us at Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet in Charlotte. Be sure to check out our pre-owned vehicle specials to save even more money on your new-to-you Chevrolet model. Check out our inventory and value your trade ahead of time!