What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Searching for a quality used or certified pre-owned vehicle can seem like a daunting process. Are you getting a reliable car? What if something breaks a few months after buying it? Am I wasting my money? What if I break down far from home? Will the car last me for many years? 

All of these are fair questions that car buyers in St. Louis need to ask themselves. And since buying a car doesn’t happen every day, you’ll need to know what to look for when buying a used car to shop like a pro. Although every vehicle you look at is different, the things you should watch for are generally the same for any car, truck, or SUV.

Read our guide on what to look for when buying a used car from Weber Ford. We’ll also have a list of what to ask when buying a used car so that the dealer can give you the information you need to know.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car near Collinsville

There are many benefits to buying a used vehicle, such as lower prices, lower depreciation, lower monthly payments, and more. If you want a vehicle in like-new condition, we recommend a certified pre-owned vehicle. We also have great bargains thanks to our used vehicles priced under $15K. Again, this process is generally the same. 

• Set a Budget: Take time to consider the balance between the cost to buy and the cost to own. You’ll have the monthly payment but also weekly refueling costs, future repairs, new tires, and routine maintenance. Your monthly auto loan payment shouldn’t exceed 10% of your monthly income. 

• Find the Right Used Car: There are a couple of factors you should consider when finding your perfect car, truck, or SUV. It should fit your budget, match your mileage expectations, and have a clean history report. Start by compiling a list of cars you’re interested in, and compare that to what’s offered at the dealership. Consult with Edmunds or KelleyBlueBook to see if your chosen vehicle is reliable. And, you can compare the prices you see on those websites to what the vehicles are for sale in Granite City.  

• Test Drive & Inspect the Models: Once you narrow down your choices, thoroughly inspect the vehicle yourself, and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. Then, take a test drive to see how it feels in your capable hands!

• Used Car Financing & Other Fees: 80% of Americans utilize an auto loan to purchase a vehicle. Make sure to account for other fees like state sales tax, registration fees, and title fees. You might also get some credit to go toward a down payment with the trade-in value of your previous vehicle. When completing the deal, look over or purchase any applicable warranties and car insurance policies.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

When you’re at the dealership, make sure to talk to the sales associate before, during, and after the test drive. Here are some tips for what to ask about when buying a used car: 

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report (CARFAX) available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What’s the ownership history?
• What’s the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect my insurance premiums?

Discover More About What to Look for When Buying a Used Car From Weber Ford

Ready to take the next steps? Contact us or call 618-452-5400 to speak to a member of our finance team or to schedule a test drive. We’re happy to help you find a used car near Collinsville in any way we can!