How to Shop For a Used Car

how to shop for a used car

The Easiest Method to Purchase a Pre-Owned Car, Truck, or SUV

To get the biggest value out of your car buying experience you may consider buying a pre-owned vehicle. The first owner has already had to deal with the depreciation, letting you pay far less than when it was brand-new. Buying a used car usually allows buyers to get a nicer trim level of the vehicle they want. Yet, there might be some skepticism when it comes to buying a pre-owned car. Used cars could have underlying repairs ahead, maintenance intervals may be near, and it might not have any manufacturer warranty remaining. Also, financing interest rates are traditionally lower on new vehicles. In this way, it’s valuable to have a plan to understand the vehicle you need, how much you can afford to pay, and to locate a credible dealer to purchase your next vehicle from.

 

Do Research

Do Research

Narrow down your search by understanding what you need. If you have a family you might want an SUV or minivan, if you’re single, maybe you pick the convertible. Figuring out what you want is the beginning, now you must find that car for sale, in the color you like, without a lot of miles, and in good condition. It’s not as straightforward as buying a brand-new vehicle, but with our collection of used cars we’ll probably have what you want.

Decide How Much You Can Afford To Spend

Decide How Much You Can Afford To Spend

For many of us, what we can afford takes precedence over what we want. To ensure you can get the most car for your money, figure out what you want to spend before you start looking at vehicles. You need funds for a down payment, how much money are you able to spend? Find an auto loan calculator to find your perfect payment. Even better, get pre-approved for financing BEFORE you come test drive the car you want. You’ll already have an idea of the payment cost and it should save you time in the end.

Find a Dealer You Can Trust

Shop from a Reliable Dealer

If you find a great quote it does NOT mean it’s a good deal. Other dealers might not have the knowledge to fix all used cars. We suggest that you shop at a well-established dealership that is not going to disappear when something breaks. Review recent customer reviews to learn how concerns are taken care of and if other buyers had positive experiences at the dealer. Shopping at a reputable dealership allows you to purchase your vehicle with confidence.


Volkswagen online car buying San Diego CA

What’s Your Vehicle Worth?

Do not forget about trading-in your current vehicle. Your current car may be worth some cash and could be enough to provide you a down payment on your new-to-you car. A trade-in combined with a down payment will allow you to get an even better deal. We will take a trade-in on nearly any vehicle, even if it has negative equity. Contact us to arrange an exclusive appraisal of your vehicle.


 

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8040 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA, 92111

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Kearny Mesa Volkswagen 32.8228011, -117.1495453.