Richmond Toyota

Where to Buy a Used Vehicle

A used vehicle is a serious purchase and there are many different places one can find a pre-owned car: a dealership, a private sale, the internet, or an independent seller.  Which source you go to depends on what type and age of vehicle you want and what experience would be most comfortable to you. It is a good idea, though, to keep an open mind, and certainly look into more than one option.  The task of used car shopping can sometimes be daunting, but if you do your research, make a lot of comparisons, and figure out exactly what you want, you will be in good shape. To begin your search for a used car, look online, in the local classifieds, or in dealer’s ads.  

Before You Shop

Set a clear limit of how much money you want to pay for the used car, and be firm. Don’t assume ‘low’ monthly payments will mean a lower priced vehicle, so keep focused on the overall price.  Research is one step that cannot be left out.  It is good to have a few models narrowed down, and important to be knowledgeable about every aspect of these vehicle, from options and trims they came in, to fuel consumption and insurance rates.  Research will also give you a fair price value, which is key to getting a good deal, wherever you shop.

A Franchised Dealership

A franchised dealer, who sells new vehicles, will often have a used car department, and is a promising venue.  In most cases, the dealer will only spend time and space on the newer, better condition trade-ins.  The older, less desirable vehicles are often auctioned off.  They will also offer previously leased vehicles, which can be a great deal because they are newer and often in good shape.  Dealers also are likely to provide a warranty with the vehicle, insuring the buyer that any problem oversight will be covered.   Franchised dealers also have on sight repair facilities. Another consideration is to buy from a dealer who handles the specific brand of vehicle that you are interested in.  What you will not find here are older, less expensive used cars, so shop elsewhere if the is a tight budget.  $10,000-$18,000 is at the top of the used car prices. This will bring you a modern car, with up to date safety and technological features.  The franchised dealership would be the place to go for this budget.

Private Sales

This is another option when purchasing a used vehicle. However, a private sale may not always offer a better deal. Buyers sometimes end up overpaying because they somehow believe they are getting a better deal from a private party.   When obtaining a vehicle this way, there are no warranties of any kind and there will be no financing provided by the seller.  Sometimes, though, a private party sale will turn up the best price because they have no overhead to cover. One benefit is that the prospective buyer can meet the seller face to face and ask about the vehicle. Insist on seeing the car’s maintenance records and records of purchase.  Make sure to always have a mechanic inspect the car before a final deal is made.  Just make sure you know the true value of the vehicle if you go this route.  If your budget is in a price range of $1000-$2000, private sales would likely be the best, and possibly, the only option. Expect to get an older vehicle, which may run, but may have other issues such as rust or engine troubles. 

The Internet

This is a powerful tool for finding a good used car, and you can do it all from the comfort of your home.  There are hundreds of sites to go to, and there is no database that can bring to you more options, opinions, and information on used cars.  Another benefit of the Web is that it provides an easy way to find out the price for which various models are selling in your area. Because many sellers are car dealerships, most sites provide direct links to the dealerships' Web sites. Online auctions are another direction to go in with an internet search. The auction system is a little different from standard negotiations over price, it is more like bidding. Just remember, even if you find a vehicle online, it doesn’t mean it is still at the dealership, as there is no way you can know how often they update their site.  So, always call ahead to check for availability.

 Used-Car Dealers

Here you can find many makes, models, and used cars in almost any condition and price range.  Signs of a trustworthy dealership are that they have been in business for a number of years, and if they have a good reputation. Many used-car dealerships also arrange financing for you.  Still, price and quality tend to be lower than at a new-car dealership.  Service stations sometimes have a sideline business selling used cars. There is often not the greatest selection of used cars.  Still, prices are often better than those you'll find at a dealership.  $4000-$9000 price range would get you a reliable used car, it may be an older style with high mileage, but suitable for everyday use.  Used Car Dealers would be an excellent source for this price range.