Few people truly enjoy the experience of buying a used car. Many times, buyers worry about the mechanical condition of the car, while others fret over how long it will be before a car begins to look dated. Look like a pro when you're shopping for a used car, and make your next purchase with confidence. You don't have to simply walk around and kick the tires. Here are a few things to look for when making your next used car purchase:
- Appraisal. Before you ever start talking about the price of a used car, you should have a pretty good idea as to what it's worth. Check the big three websites offering appraisals: kbb.com, edmunds.com, and nadaguides.com. If a car is offered significantly below its value, you should be more than a little suspicious as to why the seller is offering such a steep discount. While it may be that he's in a rush to sell the car, it's equally possible that the seller is hiding a flaw.
- Interior. The interior should show signs of wear that are appropriate for the age of the car. Most cars will have the most wear on the driver's seat. It's really up to you as to what kind of standards you set for interiors. If you're looking for a good condition leather interior, plan on paying more for it.
- Cigarette smoke. Most non-smokers strongly prefer a car that has not previously been smoked in. Those with allergies or asthma also care a great deal about this. Be aware that the car may not smell like smoke right away, even if it has been smoked in. Look for things like small cigarette burns in the seats or armrests. Check the ashtray. Can you see any grey leftover ashes? Sometimes sellers try to use strong deodorizers or scented air fresheners to mask the smell of cigarettes.
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Author: Joshua Murphy