What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Searching for a gently used or certified pre-owned vehicle can feel daunting for many Richmond drivers, but when you know what to look for when buying a used car, it’s a lot less stressful. Even if you haven’t bought a vehicle before, or you’ve had a bad car buying experience, you can trust Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond to take the hassle out it. Learn more about what to look for when buying a used car from your friends at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond, and when you’re ready, check out our pre-owned vehicle inventory online or at the dealership.

How to Buy a Used Car From a Dealer

There are several benefits to buying a used car from a dealership like Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond in Henrico. You will find more options, like used cars priced under $30k, certified pre-owned models, and more. These are the steps for how to buy a used car from a dealership: 

• Set a Budget and Stick To It: There is a difference between the cost to buy and the cost to own. You must factor in the expense of future repairs, new tires, service, and interest paid if you finance your vehicle. Most personal finance experts recommend a monthly payment that doesn’t exceed 10% of your monthly income. 
• Find the Right Used Car: Your next vehicle should match your mileage expectations and be dependable. Compile a list of vehicles you’re interested in and compare that to what’s available online or at the dealership. Then, check out reliability reviews from websites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book. Also, find out what people in your area are paying for that specific vehicle. 
• Test Drive and Inspect the Models: Always thoroughly inspect the vehicle and have it inspected by a professional mechanic. Take it for a test drive around Glen Allen to verify its performance. 
• Apply for Financing and Choose a Lender: Once you’ve found the right pre-owned vehicle, explore your loan options, and be sure to factor in fees like state sales tax and registration. 

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

It’s essential to know what to ask when buying a used car. Here are some suggestions that are especially important to ask when buying a used car privately rather than at a dealership:

• Do they have any maintenance history documentation?
• Is there a Vehicle History Report available?
• Do all features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How did they determine the asking price?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Can you take the car to a mechanic for a comprehensive inspection?
• Is the title on hand?
• Is there an available warranty?

You should also call your insurance carrier and ask about the estimated insurance premiums for a vehicle like the one you’re thinking about buying. 

Find a High-Quality Used Vehicle at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond

Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond can make the used-car-buying process easy for you. You can chat with our finance department over the phone or apply for financing online to get started, and don’t forget to check out our ongoing pre-owned specials! If you have any questions, please contact us at your convenience. We would love to hear from you!