What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Trying to find the right used or certified pre-owned vehicle might be a little difficult for some Salt Lake City drivers. For those wondering “What to look for when buying a used car?” or “What to ask when buying a used car?,” we have answers for both.

Whether this is your first time with a pre-owned vehicle, you haven’t bought a car in years, you’ve had rotten luck before, Mike Hale Acura is here to assist. We know that car buying around Salt Lake City should be as straightforward as possible. So beyond the basics of used car finance or buying, we want you prepared to tackle everything that’s involved.

Read on below to learn about all things pre-owned/used car related in Murray and we’ll help you as much as we can.

How to Buy a Used Car From a Dealer

Multiple benefits exist when buying a pre-owned vehicle, including the lower price and more accessible tech and features. For those looking for the ideal used vehicle for your South Jordan errands, we have multiple options including an inventory priced under $25k among multiple pre-owned choices. Here’s some steps on what to look for when buying a used car:

• Stick to a Set Budget: Always consider the balance between “Cost to buy” and “Cost to own. Factoring in potential repairs, new tires, routine service/maintenance and if you need car loan financing is important. Your monthly payment should exceed more than 10% of your monthly take-home pay. Find out more with our handy payment calculator.
• Locate The Right Used Car: Multiple factors should be considered when learning to buy a used car. It should: Fit your budget, match your expected mileage for a pre-owned selection, and meet some key requirements. Checking reliable sites like Edmunds and KelleyBlueBook can also provide some support when it comes to what pre-owned vehicles around Salt Lake City are going for.
• Test Drive and Inspect Your Selection: It’ll take a lot to find the ideal pre-owned vehicle to make your style and needs. Always thoroughly inspect the vehicle you select and make sure a trusted mechanic takes a look as well. Also, taking it for a test drive on those busy roads around West Jordan have an impact as well.
• Used Car Finance and Other Fees: If you find a pre-owned vehicle that checks all the right boxes, it’s time to explore loan and financing options. You’ll also have to factor in other options like state sales tax, registration fees, and the trade-in value of your previous car if you decide to explore that route. Once completing the deal, you also want to make sure any applicable warranties and car insurance plans are covered.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

In addition to what to look for, another point is what to ask when buying a used car? There’s multiple aspects to consider in this and when buying a pre-owned vehicle, here’s a great collections of what you should be asking:

• 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?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?

Find Out More About What to Look For When Buying a Used Car From Mike Hale Acura

Now that we’ve summed up what to look for when buying a used car, it’s time to experience the full selection at Mike Hale Acura. You can also take advantage of our pre-owned vehicle specials and save more money on your selection. Also, find out what’s new from Acura this year with some of our newest posts. We’ll make your pre-owned car experience as straight-forward as possible at Mike Hale Acura See you shortly!