Let’s face it. Driving a junk car is risky. If your current vehicle hardly works, has mechanical problems, or you are downright tired of it — then it’s time for an upgrade!
Have you ever wondered what to ask when buying a used car? If you haven’t, you should.
Most consumers consider the purchase of a used vehicle. Used vehicles are often far cheaper, even when the car has accumulated little mileage on it. A study done by Carfax shows that cars can lose more than 10 percent of their value during their first month after their purchase. The value of these vehicles can drop an additional 20 percent after one year.
If you’re thinking about buying a used vehicle, it is essential to take a few extra precautions to protect your new investment.
5 Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car
Thinking of buying a used vehicle? There are precautions that you should take when purchasing a new-to-you used car.
Knowing what to ask when buying a used car will protect your investment and ensure you get the best deal.
1. Does the Vehicle Have Any Unrepaired Recalls?
When learning what to ask when buying a used car, one of the most important questions is if the vehicle has any unrepaired recalls. Doing so protects your safety.
Recalls happen, but that doesn’t make it okay to sell a vehicle that has an unrepaired recall on it. Unfortunately, that can still be the case.
When looking at a vehicle, be sure to ask whether or not the car has had any recalls in the past and if any of them are unrepaired. You can double-check to make sure that the manufacturer has not put out a recall on the vehicle by checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. All you need is the vehicle’s VIN.
2. What is the Car’s Value?
Don’t hesitate to ask about the value of the car. A car’s value is based on several factors, including the make, model, year, mileage, and condition of the vehicle. You can (and should) check a car’s value for free at websites like Kelly Blue Book and the National Automobile Dealers Association Guides.
3. What is the Vehicle’s History?
Another thing to ask when buying a used car is what the vehicle’s history is. Has it been in any accidents? Has it ever been declared a salvage? You should always ask these questions and get the information you need to verify, including the car’s VIN. Request a vehicle history report or go online to request a report at the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) website.
4. Is There Anything Wrong With the Car?
You should always ask if there is anything wrong with the car. It is important to know exactly what you’re buying, even if there are small features that don’t work, such as a USB port, the radio, or window control.
5. Can I Take the Vehicle to a Mechanic?
What’s the absolute best thing to ask when buying a used vehicle?
While it may cost you extra upfront, you can gain peace of mind by taking the car to a licensed mechanic before you buy it. This can help you determine if there is anything wrong with the vehicle and how well the vehicle has been maintained. Make it a point always to ask if you can take the car to a mechanic before purchase.
Where Can I Find Cash for Junk Cars Near Me?
Have you found yourself asking, “How can I find cash for junk cars near me?”
Now that you know what to ask when buying a used car, it is important to know how to sell your old vehicle once you do.
Selling your old clunker for cash is easier than you think. You can sell your vehicle, regardless of its year, make, model, or condition. In many cases, junk car pick up options can make selling a vehicle a breeze.