Cars are necessary for most people today, and whether you love it or hate it, you’re going to have to go car shopping eventually. Like a lot of people, you might be planning on sticking to the used market this time around. Yes, used cars are cheaper. However, there are still many which will run like new. To make sure you get the most from your money, here are some costly mistakes to avoid when buying a used car.
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One of the most expensive mistakes you can make is not thinking about finance before you go to the dealership. Some people aren’t aware of it, but it’s completely possible to avoid dealership financing and the heavy premium it carries. Dealership financing is structured like wholesale insurance, with added interest rates. If you get your loan from a third party, you’ll be able to steer around these additional costs. Whether you go through a site like Gumtree or a dealership like Spire Automotive, understanding your finances from the beginning puts you in a much stronger position. You’ll avoid making impractical purchases, and be able to negotiate prices easier.
The next big mistake you can make is waving away the test drive. This is fairly understandable, but you should try to avoid it nonetheless. I’ve had a few cars which I’ve seen, and fallen in love with straight away. The contours of the bodywork, along with a quick peak at the interior can be all it takes for you to think the car is for you. There’s more to a car than the way it drives, true. However, this is its primary function, so always see how it performs. A drive around the block can open your eyes to all kinds of little, annoying issues, and make you wish you never got in the driver’s seat! You wouldn’t buy any other tool on its looks alone. Similarly, you should never buy a car without taking it for a spin first.
Finally, don’t start negotiations at the lot. Instead, start talking to a sales rep by phone, social media, or anything else which doesn’t involve you getting into the dealership. The stereotype of the silver-tongued car salesman isn’t just a myth. These guys are masters at high-pressure selling, and you’ll be making it a lot easier for them when you’re at the dealership. Don’t start off your haggling in person, and don’t say a word before you’ve done a lot of research. Hone in on a specific model, and do a lot of comparisons in the run-up to your purchase. Some people go to a used lot completely unaware of what the car they’re after should cost. Salespeople can clock onto this straight away, and as a result can sell the machine for far more than it’s worth. When the car isn’t sitting right there, it will be much easier to turn down an offer.
Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll have a much better shot at a good deal. Finding high-value deals isn’t always easy, but it’s never impossible!