Helpful hints for shopping for a used automobile

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Top 5 tips for buying a used car

Like any big purchase or decision, used car shopping can feel overwhelming. Indeed, certain pitfalls exist in the process, but buying a used vehicle doesn’t have to be such a scary undertaking. There are ways you can better prepare yourself for the whole process. Take a look at our top 5 tips for buying a used car.

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Following our top 5 tips for buying a used car should help ease the stress of car shopping.How to shop for a used car

  1. Determine your budget. Can you even afford a used car right now? If so, how much can you spend? How much can you put on a down payment, and how much are you willing to pay each month afterwards if need be? These are questions you should ask yourself right from the get-go.
  2. Determine which cars interest you. Before setting foot at a dealership, take a look around on the Internet. Figure out what you’d like from your newest vehicle. Power? Cargo space? How about color options? Conduct research online and see what grabs your attention.
  3. Get the vehicle’s history. Once you have found the automobile that piques your interest, ask about its history. A vehicle’s history is important because it shows how many owners it had, whether or not it has been in any accidents, and provides other facts that could help you determine if it is a good purchase.
  4. Test drive it. Get behind the wheel for yourself and see how it feels. While you’re at it, take it to a mechanic or auto shop you trust and have them inspect it. Oftentimes, mechanics will perform free inspections to make sure there aren’t any glaring problems.
  5. Negotiate. This is where your research will come in handy. Is the price you are given fair for the make, model, and year of the vehicle? Might the dealer be willing to lower the price a bit? It doesn’t hurt to try to make a deal, as long as the offer is reasonable.

Following these tips should help make for a less stressful and more enjoyable used car shopping experience. Take a look at the selection of pre-owned models we have here at Gil’s Auto Sales, and feel free to contact us if you have any questions!