5 Things to Look at When You Buy Pre-Owned Cars

You like to use your money wisely. Living costs are on the rise, and you’d rather spend my money on items and experiences that add to the joy in your life, rather than waste it on unnecessarily overpriced expenses. You'd rather buy pre-owned cars that are in excellent condition than drive a brand-new model. It just makes sense – you get all the quality and enjoyment at a much better price.

That said, this could be risky if you do not use a trusted dealer. Make sure that you are getting a great deal and not buying a lemon. To help you make the right choice, look at these things when you buy pre-owned cars:

1.      Compare models and offers. When you are looking to buy pre-owned cars, compare different models and offers to get a feel for market value and what the best offer is you can get for your money. You might find a similar model at the same price, but with lower mileage, or a model that still has some of its service plan left, for example.

2.      Arrange a test drive. Before you buy, test drive the pre-owned cars you are considering as options. Pay attention to the handling of the car, the responsiveness of the brakes, and any other mechanical warning signs, such as overheating.

3.      No smoking allowed. While on your test drive, also pay attention to what is happening behind you … The vehicle should generally not emit visible smoke from the exhaust. If this is the case, it might be a sign of engine damage.

4.      The sound of silence. While you may want to check out the sound system in the car, switch off the radio or music while you are on your test drive. This will allow you to better listen for any tell-tale rattles, rumbles, or knocks that should not be there.

5.      Ask for the service history. One of the best ways to see how well a car was looked after is to check its service history. Ask to see the records and make sure it has been serviced at regular intervals.

If you are looking to buy pre-owned cars, choose a registered dealership with a great reputation, like Atterbury Motors. What’s more, they also buy pre-owned cars and can assist you with the sale or trade-in of your current vehicle. Contact them today and talk to one of their friendly consultants to find out how they can help you.