Buy a Used Car Without Getting Ripped Off With These 5 Tips
We are always extra careful when spending large amounts of money. The tension is greater when it is a used car we are buying as it may blow up, along with our money, the moment we buy it. Let’s see how you can prevent this from happening and not waste your money.
Research, research, research
Do not step out of your home prior to doing an extensive research on car-makes and reliable dealerships. You need to know what your requirements are and which brands can satisfy your needs.
Try to look for car models which would suit you but are less popular for some reason as their price might be more appealing. The cheapest option is to buy directly from an owner without a middleman. If you are buying from a car dealer, make sure they are reputable as you want to avoid scams.
Set the budget
No one can rip you off if you are not gullible. Set the maximum amount you want to spend on a car and do not allow anyone to manipulate you into increasing it.
When deciding on a budget, bear in mind that there are taxes and fees you will need to cover once you purchase the car so leave some money on the side for that. If you do not have enough savings and you need to take out a loan, do not take it out with a dealership selling the car as the interest rate is bound to be high.
Find a mechanic
The perfect case scenario is to take a friend who is a mechanic with you to inspect a car on the spot. If you do not have one, however, check whether your local mechanic would be willing to do it for you.
Epping auto service mechanics report that their regular customers say that a good car mechanic is as important to them as a good dentist or their family GP. You need someone trustworthy who is on your side to estimate the state of the car.
Do not trust a mechanic available at a dealership. Always take the car for a test drive, even if it seems perfect.
Don’t let anyone trick you
If you found a car you really like but you are not certain about the owner’s or dealership’s reputation, be very careful. Ask to see the record of the repairs and ask as many random questions about the car to see how well informed they are.
You will then see that the seller has nothing to hide and is actually familiar with the vehicle and has paperwork on it so you know it is not a result of a theft. Also, if you want something repaired, have it done prior to the purchase. The chances are that the seller won’t care to indulge you after they receive the money.
Don’t be too needy
Your attitude shows everything, especially to an experienced sales person. Do not let them see you really like what they have to sell as this way they will have an upper hand in the negotiating process.
There are plenty of cars out there so do not be afraid to turn around and leave if you do not like the final price or conditions. Definitely, do not settle for less just because it sounds cheap, they only want to get rid of it and it will end up costing you more. Whatever the reason is, there is one. Another car will always come along.
You need to know what you want, be informed and do not let people manipulate you. Those are the rules to stay rip-off-free.
Category: Car Purchase
