Budget-conscious drivers have been hanging onto their vehicles longer in hopes of riding out the recession and demand for used cars is rising. Alex Bravy and Ben Wallach of Web2Carz.com offer the following tips for interested car buyers to find the best deal on a used car. (Reuters)
Increase the Search Distance
The guys at Web2Carz suggest widening your vehicle search to a 50-mile radius to help locate the best good deal.
Don’t Rush the Process
It takes time to find a good bargain, so whether you’re going from dealership to dealership or shopping online, take your time and search multiple dealers to find the right car for your budget. (Reuters)
Do Your Homework
Be an educated buyer, don’t pick a dealership because it has the best commercials or the biggest sign. Read consumer reviews, check for any bad reports with your state’s Better Business Bureau and ask friends and family for recommendations.
Avoid the Seasonal Rush
According to Bravy and Wallach, the early summer months and very late fall are the best time for shoppers to get the car they want at the price they want. (Reuters)
Know Your History
Used cars come with baggage. The car market has been hit with numerous recalls over a variety of issues and while many used vehicles are prescreened for major issues don’t get with a lemon by not asking for a vehicle history report and knowing any recalls the vehicle might have been involved in. (Reuters)
Beware Private Sales
If you have found a car through an individual ad don’t agree to any sale without meeting the seller and having the car checked out by a mechanic. The experts from Web2Cars also advise avoiding any deal---no matter how great--that involves shipping the car or any escrow services.