What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Finding the perfect used vehicle or certified pre-owned vehicle takes some work. You have to narrow down the features you want, the type of vehicle you want for Denver drives, and whether the car, truck, or SUV is in good condition. Knowing what to look for when buying a used car from the beginning can make this process easier for you. That’s why we’re happy to help you. 

Read our guide on what to look for when buying a used car from Transwest GMC, located near Brighton. We want you to have the most satisfying experience possible.

Find a Reputable Used Car Dealer

The first step in what to look for when buying a used car is to locate a reputable dealer. We have relationships with manufacturers, and we buy trade-ins from vehicle owners in Thornton and elsewhere. We have a reputation in the community to maintain. So, we’re a reputable used car dealer.

How to Buy a Vehicle From a Used Car Dealer

Now, get ready to know what to ask when buying a used car as you start your journey. These are questions to ask yourself:

What Is the Budget I Can Afford?

Not sure what to ask when buying a used car? First, understand your budget. Consider the monthly payment by using our payment calculator. You must also factor in gasoline costs, future repairs, and routine maintenance. Pro tip: your car payment shouldn’t exceed 10% of your monthly income.

Is the Vehicle in Good Shape?

Understand what to ask when buying a used car when it comes to vehicle history, both individually and as a model year. Look at reliability reports on Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and KBB. Then, look at the vehicle history report for the model you’re interested in at the dealership.

Is the Price Right?

Once you find the features you want, see if the price matches your budget ahead of applying for an auto loan. When you pre-qualify, you can see if the amount fits into your monthly budget you calculated earlier.

Where Can I Get an Auto Loan?

Once you’ve found a used car that works, take your time to explore your loan options. You can go to your bank or through the dealer. A reputable dealer like Transwest GMC has a finance center that works with lenders to find loan terms that work for your situation. Buying a car is more than just a loan. You’ll need to pay sales tax, license fees, and a title fee.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

When you get to the dealer to take a test drive, you need to know what to ask when buying a used car with the salesperson. You need to get as much information as possible about your chosen car, truck, or SUV.

Start with this list of questions to understand what to ask when buying a used car: 

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is 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 it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?

Find Out More About What to Look for When Buying a Used Car From Transwest GMC

Has our guide helped you? If you have more questions, contact us or call (855) 554-9422 to talk to our finance team. We’re happy to help you find a used car in Henderson however we can!