Christina Michelitsch Buying a used car can save you money, but in order to make sure this is the right decision for you, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. You can buy here pay here in montclair.
Mistake #1: Ignoring Carfax reports
If someone has reported something about your new vehicle online or by way of a phone call, its worth checking the information out before you sign anything. If there are any red flags concerning safety issues or technical flaws with the car that could lead to costly repairs down the line, you should stay away from it. Carfax reports are listed for free and offer crucial details about past accidents and violations as well as mileage history.
Mistake #2: Not reading the fine print
When you buy a used car, make sure you pay attention to the terms and conditions of the sale and any special requirements on the title. Buying a used car without reading these details is incredibly dangerous. You’ll want to make sure that you’re not signing over title to someone else or agreeing to anything that could hurt your credit score in the long run. In lieu of reading these items, they’re best avoided altogether if possible.
Mistake #3: Not getting a pre-purchase inspection
A pre-purchase inspection can alert you to any potential problems before you purchase a used car. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into, rather than finding out about hidden issues later on. They are relatively cheap and can save you thousands in the long run. Just make sure the inspector is credible!
Mistake #4: Buying from an unreliable dealership
Always make sure that the dealership selling the vehicle is legitimate. Never buy from a dealer that seems sketchy or requires an immediate decision, and don’t hand your money over until after you’ve inspected the car yourself. This can sounds obvious, but it’s surprising how many people make this mistake.
Mistake #5: Not getting a car loan
If you’re buying a car outright, you might want to consider borrowing some money from your bank or credit union to ease the payment burden. This can work well for people who have relatively good credit scores and don’t require a sizable down payment. If you don’t have very good credit, the interest rates will be incredibly high. Borrowing money is also a lot more flexible than if you were simply purchasing the car outright, and interest rates are generally much lower than on financing options like auto loans.
Make sure you know the pros and cons of each and ask any questions that you have. Although there isn’t one perfect way to buy a car, this research will be invaluable in helping you discover the right auto loan for your needs.
