Tips to Purchase a Used Car After Getting Driving License

By Ushna on Nov 21, 2021

If you are going to purchase a used car after getting your driving license passing the g1 and road test, you must know some important tips which will help you in purchasing the right kind of vehicle at the best price. You need to make sure that the car you are going to purchase is suitable for you and your driving conditions.

Always check the history of the car thoroughly before you decide to buy it. Make sure there is no major accident report, damage reports, and that the odometer reading is correct. The history report makes it a whole lot easier to know if the used car is worth buying after you get the driving license.

There are various factors you must keep in mind while purchasing a used car. The following are some of them:

1. Go to the Car Dealer Yourself

Not everybody can afford a new car. For them, a used car is the best option. However, most people who want to buy a used car go to the dealer and not the other way around. Why? Simply because it's hard to know what you are getting into until you walk into the showroom.

When you go to the dealer, you will be able to ask as many questions as you need to be comfortable with the deal. You will also be able to check out the vehicle and have the car inspected if needed.

It is very important to know how the dealership will price their used cars. If they are willing to discount the car to move it, you should at least know the approximate price before you go talk to the dealer.

Look at the car from every angle. Are there any dents or scratches? How is the interior? How is the exterior? Does the odometer show a lot of miles? Take your time and really examine the car. Don't just look at the "pretty" features. Look at the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and the actual mechanical condition of the car.

2. Negotiate a price

Never ever pay the full amount in cash without any negotiation. Try to bargain for a better deal and don't be afraid to walk away from the counter if the seller is unreasonable.

Negotiate on the following points: The odometer reading, the condition of the car, the existence or non-existence of a salvage title, the miles, and kilometers the car has been driven, etc.

3. Never buy from someone who tries to hide certain facts

For example, if the car has been in an accident, ask the seller directly whether the car has been repaired or not. If he says yes, ask him how long ago was the repair done and if it has been done properly. If he refuses to answer these questions, it is a sure sign that he is trying to hide something and should be avoided at all costs.

4. Make sure the car has been well maintained.

Look for signs of repair like dents, scratches, and cracks in the paint. A shiny car isn’t necessarily a good car. A lot of people spend a fortune on car paint to make it look new. 

However, this is not a wise thing to do. Paint tends to crack and chip over time due to natural causes. So, if possible, always drive the car you are going to purchase before you decide to buy it. This way, you will be able to tell how the paint is holding up. If it is chipping and peeling, then it could be an expensive fix.
 

5. Always test drive the car before you buy it

It is surprising how many people buy a car without even test driving it on the various road conditions. You should never buy a car just because it is cheap. Always test drive it. Look for problems that may not be visible to the naked eye like worn-out brakes, squeaky brakes, worn-out tires, suspension, and so on.

In summary, it's important to remember that buying a used car isn't all about price; it's about finding the right fit for your life. Buying a used car allows you to get behind the wheel for less, which means more money in your wallet.

It is an exciting and intimidating experience. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to a great experience and a new car that is less expensive, low maintenance and that is safe for your family.

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