auto mechanic garage

HOW NOT TO BUY ALEMON

Congratulations!!! You are out searching the market for a used car.  The decision may have been an easy one, but now you don’t know where to turn.  Well, it doesn’t have to be as hard as you think.  Let us guide you through the process and help you along the way so that you don’t end up driving a lemon (as cute as they may look).

-Shop around for insurance before you buy a car.  Select a few makes and models you are interested in and check to see what the insurance will cost you. 

-Look for vehicles that age well and hold their value.  Check out Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.  They both collect maintenance reports which can give you a good indication on which vehicles require the least amount of attention.  You certainly don’t want to be spending all your money at your auto mechanic garage.  Other websites to investigate are Kelley Blue Book’s Five-Year Cost to Own or Consumer Reports’ Cost of Vehicle Ownership.           

-There are several good websites that list used vehicles.  Here are the top four to checkout: Craigslist, Auto Trader, Auto List and CarMax.          

-Find out about the owner.  Ask why he or she is selling, how long have they owned the vehicle, are they the original owner, ask about any accidents, see if they can provide you with maintenance records and receipts, ask how they set the asking price, ask if they have the title and if it is clear, ask if you can have your mechanic repair shop inspect the car.If you come across an originally owned vehicle with good maintenance records’, chances are you will end up with a good reliable car.

-Take the vehicle on a test drive.  This is your chance to feel the car.  See how it handles.  Get a feel for the brakes, the acceleration, ergonomics: can you easily reach all the gauges and controls? Listen for any unusual noises and vibrations.  Check out the tires for wear and tear.  Think about the space in the front and back of the car.  Make sure the seatbelts are working properly.  Look for any indication lights on the dashboard.  If you like what you see it is time to stop by Bullitt Automotive your automotive mechanic shop.  Leave the rest to us Our trained technicians will pop the hood and take a good look at what could be your next ride. 

First, buying a used car is quite a wise decision.  It will save you a ton of money (granted you find a good, reliable vehicle).  You will save not only on the vehicle itself, but also on insurance, registration and taxes.  Today’s vehicles are more reliable than ever and can serve you well over 100 K miles.  But let’s start with your homework. 

-Use the tools that are available out there such as: pricing guides, online listings and vehicle history reports. 

-Be realistic with your budget.  Decide on the maximum dollar amount you want to spend and stick to it no matter what.  Don’t let emotions and desires get in the way.  Calculate all your monthly expenses carefully and make sure that the additional cost of owning your vehicle will be feasible and not cause a financial burden.  Plan for some unexpected expenses, – just in case.

-Choose a vehicle that works for you.  Is the vehicle just for you and an occasional passenger, or do you have large family that you will be transporting all the time?  Thinkabout body type, size, features, fuel efficiency, and…looks, well looks count too.  You must love what you drive.  Check out Edmunds.com, Car Finder and Carfax.com (be aware that not all accidents are reported here however).

-Don’t overpay.  Do your research.  In today’s world the power is in the hands of the consumer.  There is so much information available online.  Call the dealers and pick their brains.  Check out Kelley Blue Book and be sure to compare makes and models, age, mileage, condition and options.  Once you get a good idea what he car is worth don’t be afraid to negotiate.  Most sellers expect it and have built it into the asking price.Plus, you’ve done your homework and you have the information needed to negotiate effectively.