What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

2021 Chevrolet Blazer driving on a city street

Finding the right used car or certified pre-owned Chevy can feel daunting, but Volume Chevrolet is here to help! Below we provide some used car buying tips and explain what to look for when buying a used car. Best of all, we are happy to assist you every step of the way, from recommending the right model for your Griffin lifestyle to securing no-hassle financing. So sit back and relax as you learn how to shop for a used car. 

How to Buy a Used Car From a Dealer

There are several advantages to buying a used car, such as paying a lower price and experiencing less depreciation. These are some used car buying tips to help you move forward confidently on McDonough streets.

  • Set a Budget: There is a difference between the cost to buy and the cost to own. Set a budget for both and stick to it! Be sure to factor in needed repairs, routine maintenance, new tires, and auto insurance. Remember, your monthly payment should never exceed 10% of your gross monthly income. 
  • Find the Right Used Car: There are a few other things to consider when learning how to shop for a used car. Aside from meeting your budget requirement, how many miles do you want on the odometer, and do you need AWD or 4WD? We’ll cover what to ask when buying a used car in the next section, but for now, list what you want in your next vehicle and list them by priority. Then, research their reliability reviews from websites like Edmunds or KelleyBlueBook. 
  • Test Drive Your Prefered Models: Once you’ve narrowed it down to your top three models, take a few test drives around Forsyth to see how they handle.
  • Have the Car You Want Inspected by a Mechanic: Be sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle to ensure all the features work and confirm that it is in good mechanical condition.
  • Secure Financing and Ask About Fees: Take your time shopping for an auto loan. Compare interest rates and ask about other fees, such as state sales tax and registration fees. 
  • Get a Value for Your Trade-In: If you want to trade in your current vehicle, find out how much you owe on it before you get a value for your trade-in. That way, you’ll know if you have positive or negative equity. 

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Not only is it important to know what to look for when buying a used car, but it’s also crucial to know what to ask when buying a used car.

  • Do you have the title ready?
  • Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
  • Do you have maintenance records?
  • Is the Carfax vehicle history report available?
  • Do all of the amenities and features correctly?
  • Does the price include any kind of extended warranty?
  • What is the vehicle’s mileage?
  • How did you come up with the price?
  • What is the ownership history?
  • Can I take the car to a mechanic of my choice for an inspection?

Shop For a Used Car at Volume Chevrolet

Now that you know how to shop for a used car, remember that at Volume Chevrolet, we take all the hassle out of shopping for a used car. Feel free to explore your financing options with our finance team and apply for financing online. Then head into the dealership to explore our used car inventory and go for a test drive.

Volume Chevrolet 33.04546, -83.94225.