5 Common Mistakes When Buying A Used Car (And How to Avoid Them)
Did you know that the average age of a car on the road is 11 years? Used cars are a valuable commodity, lasting years with proper care!
And with the price of new vehicles soaring, a good quality used car just makes sense. But remember, buying a car, new or used, is a complex process. It's important that you keep a level head and not buy your new car or truck based on excitement alone.
Why turn excitement to turn into buyer's remorse? So how can you keep that from happening? Here are our 5 tips for making a wise investment, one that pays you back for years to come.
1. Becoming Infatuated with a Particular Model
Forget about becoming infatuated with one single model. Take a wide-eyed approach. Decide in advance what you need and then work from there. Compare models and base your decision on logic and save the excitement for after the sale.
Remember, when spending thousands of dollars on a car, let your emotions take a back seat. There could be an alternative vehicle that better suit your lifestyle and your needs.
2. Skipping the Test Drive
This is one of the most important parts in the car buying process! Don't skip it. Surprisingly, many people do. Or, they just take the vehicle for a token test drive. That's a recipe for buyer's remorse.
A vehicle that may look good online or in a glossy brochure may tell a different story once you get behind the wheel. This is your chance to see how the vehicle performs and to see how well it fits your needs.
Take ample time-at least 30 minutes-to drive the car and perform a walk-around on any vehicle you're considering to buy.
3. Focusing Only on Monthly Payments
Of course you want your car payments to fit your budget! But you also don't want to overpay for a vehicle with a longer loan period just so you can buy the vehicle. If you know you'll keep the vehicle for many years, it may make sense.
Again, don't buy based on emotion. Negotiate the vehicle price first, then discuss trade-in, and financing.
4. Waiting Until You're in the Dealership to Talk About Financing
The best time to think about financing is before you start the buying process. Know what you can afford to purchase.
Check interest rates and terms in the Harrisonburg area. While car dealers have in the past charged higher interest rates on car loans, that's not the case at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza.
Our rates are competitive with local banks and some credit unions! And, if you're buying a higher mileage vehicle, many local lending institutions won't finance it. We're in the car business. We know cars and we aren't deterred by a high mileage vehicle.
Additionally, our car loans are simple interest. You can make advanced payments and pay off your loan early!
5. Not Getting the Pre-Owned Car Checked by An Independent Mechanic
All of the pre-owned vehicles at our Harrisonburg dealership undergo a 75-point inspection process. If the vehicle has any issues, they are immediately corrected. What's more, if a vehicle does not pass this inspection, we will not place it on the lot to be sold.
What's more, we have a 30 or 90-day warranty on the used cars we sell, depending on the year of the vehicle and the mileage.
That said, we know that customers often have greater peace of mind if they can take the car to their own mechanic. We respect that and encourage you to do so.
What's important is for you to feel comfortable when you buy a car from us!
To learn more about the Joe Bowman Auto Plaza dealership, visit us on the web.
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