Buying a used (I believe the politically correct term is pre-owned) car has its advantages over buying a brand new car. The most obvious advantage is that it can save you money. However, buying a used car can also be a bit of a gamble since the car is, well, used. What the owner tells you about the car may or may not be the entire truth. You could be buying an accident-free, low mileage vehicle or a lemon in disguise. This uncertainty should encourage you to take the proper precautions when shopping for a car that has had a previous owner(s), such as purchasing extended vehicle warranties or delving into the car’s history.
When shopping for a pre-owned car, it is a good idea to know exactly what you are looking for. What can you comfortably afford? What features are you looking for? Check into the market to see what is available before you jump from dealer to dealer. This will save you plenty of time when car shopping.
Once you have a clear idea of what you are looking for, narrow your choices down a bit more by being subjective towards the cars you look at. The reality is you may never know the truth behind the car you purchase because sellers may want to hide any undesirable information about the car to increase their chances of selling it to you. Just remember that you should not rely solely on the word of the seller. Go the extra mile and do some of your own research. Check the car’s history by its VIN number, ask to see all documents pertaining to the car’s maintenance, and compare the car to consumer reports and reviews. Remember, the older the car, the more risks you are taking; the same theory goes with mileage. Even if you get it at a bargain price, the odds of it spending more time in the shop will probably outweigh its time on the road. Sometimes even new parts cannot revive an old car back to its younger self. Do not consider any car more than 12 years old.
On the other hand, extended vehicle warranties take away the worry of exorbitant auto expenses, and many of them are quite reasonable too. Even if you bought your car from a dealer, chances are the warranty included is not that much. Just like when shopping for a used car, shopping for extended vehicle warranties should not be done hastily. Websites are a great way to shop around for the best warranty; besides, if you’ve bought a car without going through a pushy salesman, why start now? When shopping, make sure the options outlined in the warranty are right for you. Making a list of all the things you are looking for is a good idea to ensure your needs and the needs of your car will be fulfilled. A good website will allow you compare prices and receive helpful information on the types of extended vehicle warranties out there.
By Kelley Caner