A brief guide to buy a used car

Buying a used car is one of the smartest money-saving moves you can make when it comes to driving. 

But let's be real - the process can feel like a daunting maze if you don't know your way around.

That's where this guide comes in. It's your trusty map for navigating the used car world like a pro, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned buyer looking to change rides.

We'll cover every twist and turn, from deciding if it's truly time to upgrade, to separating the lemons from the gems to becoming a pricing ninja through research and negotiation tactics. 

This article gives advice to help you find a reliable used car that fits your lifestyle and budget like a glove.

When to replace your car

Before taking the plunge into the used market, do a self-check with your current wheels.

If your ride is nickel-and-diming you with constant repairs that cost more than it's worth, that's a huge green light to start shopping.

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Major life changes like an expanding family or a new job with a monster commute are also signs it's time for an automotive glow-up.

How to choose a used car

Okay, you've decided it's time to upgrade o'clock. Pause for a second and get crystal clear on what you need this car to do for you. 

Question yourself what your needs are and make a checklist: 

• Cargo space for hauling sports gear? 
• Top safety ratings? 
• A fuel-sipper for that budget? 

Knowing exactly what you want lets you cut through the clutter and zoom in on your perfect match.

The right car for your budget

The beauty of buying used is the money you'll save upfront compared to new cars. 

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However, owning a ride still comes with ongoing expenses to budget for. 

You have to make sure this investment fits into your financial life cleanly.

The choice comes down to your plans, budget, and driving habits. 

Check out this guide for how to prepare your wallet before buying a car for more insights.

Paying for the car

Financing is a biggie, so let's hash it out. If you want to truly own your next ride, you have 3 options, paying cash, getting a car loan or a lease.

The lease route is a popular option, it lets you drive something newer for a set period without committing long-term.

Know Your Limits

Craft a realistic budget that accounts for the car's sticker price, and related expenses like insurance, registration fees, maintenance, and repairs down the road. 

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This step is critical for keeping your finances in shape long-term.

Don't Overlook the Car Hunt Costs

Set aside funds specifically for expenses involved in tracking down the right car for you.

Car hunting expenses to consider include:

• Travel costs to inspect cars
• Hiring a mechanic for pre-purchase checkups
• Vehicle history report fees 
• Among other costs

These expenses can add up fast if you're not prepared.

Maintenance

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While a pre-purchase inspection can reveal any glaring issues, you still need to be prepared for maintenance and repairs as the car ages.

Research the typical costs for your make/model, so you can keep it purring smoothly without surprises eating into your budget.

Insurance Matters

Speaking of budgeting, let's not gloss over car insurance for used cars. 

Although a used car insurance tends to be cheaper than new ones because of its cheaper value, the rates can vary wildly based on the vehicle's make, your driving record, the packages you need, and more.

Do your homework by getting free quotes from different providers to find the best fit for your budget and your needs.

Understand Depreciation

Cars lose a huge chunk of their value in the first few years after driving off the lot. 

That built-in depreciation is amazing for used buyers, making lots of models surprisingly affordable if you know what to look for.

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The trick is balancing age and condition to minimise headaches down the road.

The Quest Begins

You've defined your criteria and set a budget - now it's time for the actual car hunt!

Prepare for some patience, serious research, and pro-level inspection skills as you separate the winners from the clunkers.

Knowledge is power so do your homework! Check out our guide to buying new vs old cars here. 

Read up on different makes/models that fit your needs, especially when looking for the best-used cars for beginners.

Reliability, safety ratings, cost of ownership - leave no stone unturned. 

Get the inside scoop from expert reviews and real-world owner experiences too.

Where to look

From dealer lots to online listings to Doug's cousin selling his old ride, there are tons of places to find used cars these days. 

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Inspecting Like a Champ

Kick those tires and take notes! Whether buying from a dealer or individual, you'll need to go over the car with a fine-toothed comb checking for any issues.  

Small blemishes can sometimes be negotiated, but big red flags deserve a hard pass.

You can offset some of the hesitations you have about buying your used car by asking for used car warranty advice from the seller.

Sniffing Out Sketchy Sellers

Unfortunately, where there's a dollar to be made, you'll find shady characters trying to pull a fast one. 

While you’re on you hunt expedition, be sure to look out for these signs of scams:

• The offer seems too good to be true.
• The seller demands you send money upfront for any reason.
• The seller urges you to make a buy fast.
• The seller asks for payment in obscure ways (gift cards, cryptocurrencies, Western Union, etcetera).
• The meeting point or scheduled time seems sketchy, or they don’t seem to agree on any of your proposed meeting points.
• They ask for personal information that no bank or creditor would ask, such as your password or bank account number.

Check out for more tactics for spotting scams in this guide.

Negotiating Tricks

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Negotiating used car prices to secure a killer deal can play as one of the biggest advantages of buying used.

Done right, these skills can save you thousands!

• Ask for discounts over the bad: If there’s some room for improvement on the car your looking, use it to ask for a discount, tell the seller that those are expenses you will have to make after buying the car.
  Use evidence to prove your point with this tools:
• • • Getting a Spotless History Report: A vehicle history report check can unveil insight into your car's past - any previous accidents, ownership swaps, major repairs, and more.
      This is one area where it pays to get nerdy and leave zero questions unanswered about what you're buying.
    • The Mechanic Seal of Approval: Even if a car checks out during your inspection, it's wise to take it to your mechanic for an extra set of truth-telling eyes with a pre-purchase car inspection.
      A pro can spot underlying issues you may have missed and give you the final greenlight (or stop sign). Don't skip this critical step!

• Compare similar offers: The car may be in a way better shape than the rest of the offers, but the seller knows the price is a bit higher, try using this in your favour to settle for a lower price.
• You have a limited budget: Your budget is your limit, the seller knows this and if you’re doing this right can use this fact to your advantage.
  Many times the seller will settle for a lower price to fit your budget.

• Cash in hand: Buying cash will make negotiations go smoother and in your benefit, many sellers will settle for less money for instant transactions.

• Don’t be afraid to Walk: At the end of the day, if all signs point to "back away," you have to be prepared to restart your car hunt from scratch.
  As difficult as that can feel after investing so much time and effort, driving away with buyer's remorse is a fate far worse. Trust your gut - an amazing deal is still out there.

The Joyride Begins!

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Finding the perfect used car is a marathon, no doubt, but…

The feeling of victory when you drive off with an incredible value can't be beaten. 

By following this roadmap of tips and strategies, you'll be ahead of the pack in your car hunt... and well on your way to stacking more cash for your other life goals.

The hard work upfront pays off every time you get behind the wheel!