What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

When you are looking for a used vehicle in the Scotts Valley area, you’ll want to know what to look for when buying a used car, and take any worries out of the car buying process. When you are buying your first car or it’s been a while, you can trust the team at Santa Cruz Subaru to help you find out what to ask when buying a used car, as well as some tips to keep in mind when you start your search in the San Jose area. Learn more about the car buying process below, and when you’re ready to take any of the used cars in our inventory out for a test drive, simply contact us today.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Lower prices and more accessible technology are some of the benefits of choosing a used car. When you are trying to find the right vehicle for your San Jose commutes, you can find a variety of options with different prices points, age, mileage, and more. Check out our certified pre-owned models and used options. Here’s the process for creating a used car checklist:

• Set a Budget: You’ll want to consider the actual cost of the vehicle and the cost to own, factoring in future repairs, new tires, routine maintenance, car loan if needed, and yearly registration. Keep in mind, a monthly payment shouldn’t exceed 10% of your monthly income.

• Find the Right Vehicle: Consider a few factors, for example, does it fit your budget, your mileage needs, and the key requirements like the vehicle history report. We’ll go over a longer used car checklist below. However, start by compiling a list of cars you’re interested in and compare that to what’s offered at the dealership. Look further into the reliability reviews from sites like Edmunds or KelleyBlueBook, and compare what price the vehicle sold for in your area.

• Test Drive and Inspect the Models: Finding the right used car that suits your style isn’t always easy. Take the time to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic, and take it out for a test drive to verify the performance you’re taking on Scotts Valley-area roads.

• Used Car Financing and Other Fees: Take your time to explore your loan options, and be sure to factor in other fees and credits like state sales tax, registration fees, and the trade-in value of your previous vehicle.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Learn what to ask when buying a used car so you can narrow down your options as quickly as possible. There’s so much variety when shopping for used vehicles, so it’s important that you know what to look for and can avoid costly repairs in the future. Here are a few tips for what to ask when buying a used car:

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?
• Does this vehicle affect your insurance premiums?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Would you drive this vehicle cross-country today? If not, what would stop you?

Explore More Used Car Tips with The Team at Santa Cruz Subaru

Come visit us in Santa Cruz today to explore some of our used models. If you have any questions, contact our team today. Be sure to value your trade ahead of time so you can save money on your next CPO or pre-owned model!