6 Tips to Take The Stress Out of Buying a Used Car

It’s time to get a “new” car. There are so many elements to think about when buying a car, especially used. Buying a used car is not something the average person does every day. Factoring in the time it takes to do your research, look around, plus the price of the car, it’s not cheap either. Avoid regretting your choice by following the suggestions below.

Think Positive

While making your final decision to purchase a used can you need to avoid pointing out the negative points, because “Buying a car is a unique experience” and one that makes us fearful rather than excited. We always remain obsessed with getting the best value for our money. For some reason, the fact that car dealers make a profit seems to anger us (although we are happy to pay a fee for any other type of service). You have to remember that not every salesperson is out to rip you off. Some are just doing their job and it is their goal to have satisfied customers. So when looking for a car, try to lower your hostility. Be on your own guard, but don’t be negative, to begin with. Always remember “Positive things happen to positive people.”

Use The Power of the Internet

We consumers have plenty of information (perhaps even too much) available to us from the safety and privacy of our own home. However, it is known that the more choices we have the more likely we are to become indecisive and stressed. There are a lot of websites that are specialized in used cars and full of useful tips that can help you filter your search. Use these sites to get an idea for your future car and stick to your choices or else you will be overwhelmed. Don’t forget to check out the dealer or individual seller, if possible.

Go As Fast as Your Legs Can Carry You

Once you have done your research and found a car that you like, don’t procrastinate. A good car will sell quicker than you think. It is not uncommon to show up at a dealership just to find out that you have missed your chance. If you are not fast enough someone will snatch it right under your nose. Save yourself from the disappointment and call ahead to make sure that the vehicle is still for sale.

Safety in Numbers

We often feel pressured when speaking to salespeople. You should count on spending a lot of time in dealerships and you will have to negotiate. Ask a friend to come along with you. This should preferably be someone who knows a thing or two more than you do about cars and has had some experience in the used car game. It will help you feel more secure and level-headed so that you may stand your ground under pressure. Also, a friend can help do a final inspection once you have decided on the car you plan on driving away in. The more people you ask, the more dissenting opinions you will receive. Value the opinions of others but remember that your car only needs to suit your lifestyle.

Haggle

Although stress is a normal part of life, negotiating the price can cause a lot more headaches than you can handle. Haggling has been a proven tactic for getting a good bargain. You will save hundreds of dollars off of the initial price. There is always some room for maneuver. Doing it face to face is a thing of the past. Revert back to the internet. Get multiple offers from a number of dealers. Let them know, that another dealer has given you a better price for the same or similar car. Get into a bidding war. It is much easier and most importantly, you can take your time from a distance. Remember to ask for the bottom line price. No hidden fees.

Find Out Where Your Used Car Has Been

Unfortunately, the only person who knows this for sure is the previous owner, but there are certain steps you must take in order to be on the safe side. This is especially important if you are buying from an individual. The obvious is a test drive. Another good pointer is to use a reliable auto service. You can also get a mechanic to inspect the car before signing off on it. Breakdowns are not only annoying, but they can have a greater impact on your daily routine than anything else you will ever buy. Think upfront about the unexpected costs or the price of insurance. And make sure you’re choosing suitable insurance coverage for a used car. It goes without saying that it is always better to be on the safe side than regretting.

Keep in mind that no two used cars can ever be identical. Just as with so many other aspects of our lives, finding a balance is a key point. Do not give up, do not break down, do not settle. You can be happy with a used car.