Five Tips for Buying a Used Car

If you're in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, you need to know what you're looking for before you begin shopping. Make a list of your needs and wants so that when you browse used car lots you can filter through and find the one that's right for you. Whether you're looking for used cars for sale or need something bigger like a used truck or SUV, you have plenty of options here at InstaCar. There are four tips below that will help you get ready to start shopping for your used vehicle.

1. Define Your Budget

You must determine your budget before going into the dealership. You'll be much better off if you have a number in mind and don't stray from that amount because it will help focus your search. You can use your budget to your advantage, and the sales associate may even drop several thousand off an over-priced vehicle just to lock in the sale.

2. Used Cars for Sale or Used Trucks for Sale or Used SUVs?

Used cars, used trucks, and used SUVs all make excellent vehicles. The trick is to make the choice on body style before coming to the used car lot. You should try and decide on what you're looking for ahead of time so you can walk into the dealership and narrow your search. You'll save yourself time, energy, and confusion by determining what kind of vehicle is right for your lifestyle. How many seats do you need? How much cargo room? Fuel efficiency? Having answers to all of these ahead of time is a great help.

3. Read Reviews

When you think you've found your dream car, be sure to read dealership or car lot reviews. You certainly can't trust every review you find online, but if most of the reviews are written by people expressing their satisfaction with the dealership, you can trust the sales associates and team members are there to help you. A high percentage of negative reviews may indicate that negative experiences outnumber positive ones, so you'll be better off shopping elsewhere. Look for things like community involvement, charitable work, and buyer incentives that signal the dealership you’re looking at has earned a positive reputation. That’s a good starting place.

4. Calculate Your Trade-In

Use an online trade-in calculator to calculate the value of your trade-in before going into the dealership. If possible, bring a copy with you so you can present it to the sales team at the time of purchase. A quality dealership will value your trade-in and ensure you get what you deserve, and not a penny less.

Buy Your Next Used Car in Charlotte with InstaCar

If you're looking for a quality dealership with a team you can trust, we’re here for you. Visit us today at InstaCar to browse our extensive inventory of quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs.