- Define your primary use for the vehicle.
- Consider your lifestyle and driving conditions.
- Research different makes and models.
- Establish the key features needed in your next car.
Need | Vehicle Type | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Daily Commute | Sedan, Hatchback | Fuel efficiency, parking ease |
Family Trips | SUV, Minivan | Passenger capacity, cargo space, safety features |
Hauling Cargo | Truck, Van | Towing capacity, bed size |
Off-Road | SUV, Truck | 4WD, ground clearance |
Need | Vehicle Type | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Daily Commute | Sedan, Hatchback | Fuel efficiency, parking ease |
Family Trips | SUV, Minivan | Passenger capacity, cargo space, safety features |
Hauling Cargo | Truck, Van | Towing capacity, bed size |
Off-Road | SUV, Truck | 4WD, ground clearance |
- Utilize online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
- Explore local dealerships for CPO vehicles.
- Consider auctions for potential deals, but be cautious.
- Use vehicle history reports to uncover potential issues.
Source | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Online Marketplace | Wide selection, potential for good deals | Seller credibility can be questionable, risk of scams |
Dealership | CPO vehicles with warranties, financing options | Higher prices, less room for negotiation |
Auction | Potential for very low prices | Limited inspection opportunities, risk of buying a lemon |
Source | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Online Marketplace | Wide selection, potential for good deals | Seller credibility can be questionable, risk of scams |
Dealership | CPO vehicles with warranties, financing options | Higher prices, less room for negotiation |
Auction | Potential for very low prices | Limited inspection opportunities, risk of buying a lemon |
- Check the exterior for damage, rust, and mismatched panels.
- Inspect the tires for wear and tear.
- Test all the electronic features in the interior.
- Listen for unusual noises during the test drive.
Inspection Area | Things to Check | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
Exterior | Body panels, paint, rust, tires | Accident damage, corrosion, worn tires |
Interior | Upholstery, electronics, safety features | Wear and tear, malfunctioning components, safety hazards |
Mechanical | Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension | Leaks, noises, poor performance |
Inspection Area | Things to Check | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
Exterior | Body panels, paint, rust, tires | Accident damage, corrosion, worn tires |
Interior | Upholstery, electronics, safety features | Wear and tear, malfunctioning components, safety hazards |
Mechanical | Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension | Leaks, noises, poor performance |
- Research the car's market value.
- Get pre-approved for a loan before you go.
- Focus on the total cost of ownership.
- Compare the vehicle mileage to the average.
Stage | Strategy | Goal |
|---|---|---|
Research | Determine market value | Understand fair price range |
Negotiation | Point out flaws, focus on total cost | Lower the price |
Financing | Get pre-approved for a loan | Secure favorable loan terms |
Stage | Strategy | Goal |
|---|---|---|
Research | Determine market value | Understand fair price range |
Negotiation | Point out flaws, focus on total cost | Lower the price |
Financing | Get pre-approved for a loan | Secure favorable loan terms |