8 Things To Inspect When Buying A Used Car
Used cars have risen in popularity due to the car chip shortage. They also are a great option for those looking for a car at an affordable price. However, getting a used car that you know is reliable can be a struggle if you’re not prepared. Toyota of Clermont experts are here to help you get the best deal on a used car by telling you what to look for when buying a used car.
What to look for when buying a used car
Vehicle history
The vehicle history is crucial when buying a used car because it lets you know if the car was in a car accident. You can run the VIN (vehicle identification number) through a service like Carfax to tell you if the car has ever been in an accident.
Rust or paint damage
Look around at the car for any rust or paint damage. This can be an easy fix, but it is still something to keep in mind regarding the value of a used car.
Under the hood
When looking at a used car you’re interested in, check under the hood. You can turn off the car, open the hood, and visually inspect the engine. Look for fluid leaks, corrosion, and cracked hoses and belts.
Tire condition
It’s essential to look at the condition of the used car tires. They should be evenly worn with good tread health. If the used car you purchase doesn’t have good tire condition, then it could lead to poor alignment that causes steering, suspension, or even frame issues.
Mileage
You want to ensure that the used car you are interested in buying doesn’t have too many miles on it. The average mileage per year is 20,000, so if it’s more than 20,000 per vehicle’s age, the cost should reflect that. This is because a car in Clermont, FL, with more mileage, has more wear and tear and causes expensive repairs to happen sooner.
Interior electronics
Make sure to check on all of the electronics in the used car. You can do this by pressing some buttons, turning on the stereo, and checking the a/c system and heat.
Fabrics in the interior
Take a hard look at the fabric inside of the interior. Note if there are any tears, stains, or cracked leather anywhere inside of the used car.
Mechanic inspection
If you’ve found a car that passes all of the tests, you still want to make sure a trusted mechanic has a look at it for a decent inspection. This way, you can get some comfort in knowing there may not be any underlying issues you may not catch on the surface.
What to ask when buying a used car?
Tips for buying a used car
- Decide on a price point that you feel most comfortable with paying.
- Figure out which car features are essential for you: good fuel economy, Apple Carplay accessibility, safety features, heated car seats, etc.
- Test drive the car before buying it to ensure you enjoy how it drives.
Consider buying a certified used car from us!
A certified preowned vehicle is a factory certified used vehicle available for purchase at a dealership of the same brand. Here is a list of requirements for preowned cars to qualify as certified preowned cars.
- Accident-free
- In good condition
- No older than six model years
- Less than 85,000 miles
- Must be certified by passing a 160-point quality assurance inspection
Visit Toyota of Clermont for a Clermont used vehicle!
We have Toyota Certified Used Cars to ease your worry and make buying a used car simple and comforting. So, what are you waiting for? Come to shop Toyota of Clermont for a great selection of certified pre-owned vehicles at prices that fit your budget. Call (352) 404–7000 for more information, or stop by the dealership at 16851 State Road 50. We’re open seven days a week for your convenience!