Buying a used car can be the most cost effective was to make a vehicle purchase, but you have to be careful, not all used vehicles are the same.
Make sure you check the vehicles history; using the vehicles VIN number you can find out what the history of the car is. You want to make sure it has not been seriously damaged in an accident or flood. You want to make sure the vehicle has the number of miles the odometer reading says.
You want to find out if the manufacturers warranty is still in effect, and if it is not can you purchase an extended warranty or is the vehicle sold as is – meaning there is no warranty. Most people prefer to buy a vehicle that is either still under warranty or a warranty can be purchased at the time of sale.
Some people like to purchase service plans at the time of purchase, though that is not required. It is a good idea to hire a mechanic of your own to inspect the vehicle before you agree to the purchase.
Be aware of the DMV costs and insurance rates for the type of vehicle and your driving history. Though the car payments may be in your budget, the insurance might not be, so make sure you budget in all the associated costs. You will need to have insurance on the vehicle before you can drive off the lot, so make arrangements with your insurance agent before you go to pick up you new car.
Make sure you know the exact purchase price, the amount you are financing, and the interest rate on your loan. Make sure you get everything in writing, including warranty and history information, verbal agreements are difficult to prove and enforce.
Test drive the vehicle on a variety of road conditions, including hills, curves, and highway.