Used Car Buyers Guide…

(Secrets from an Insider)



10 Things You MUST DO Before Buying a Used Car!



  1. Check Reviews: Dealership and Vehicle

  • Know WHAT you’re buying, and WHO you’re buying from. 

  • Research vehicle reliability ratings. 

  • Mileage and Carfax won't matter if you’re buying problem vehicles like Chryslers. 

  1. Apply Online in Advance!

  • Save yourself 30+ minutes at each dealership and apply for pre-approval online, unless you like sitting in an office.

  • This will help keep your focus on test driving and shopping for your new car. The best part.

  1. Get an Insurance Quote!

  • Once you find out the type of car you want, see how much it's going to cost you for insurance.

  • It's super quick and easy.

  • Note: Most times insurance will increase because you are upgrading your car, ask them for discounts!

  1. PRO TIP: Finance Out of House, Build Your Credit!

  • Personally, we can get anyone approved, so build your credit while driving a car you are in love with. It’s the best of both worlds.

  • In house financing (Buy Here Pay Here) doesn’t allow you to build credit and asks for a large down payment. 

  • However, in house financing is a great option if all else fails. Look to build credit first!

  1. Ask for CarFax

  • Everyone knows this, but not everyone does it. 

  • It’s a quick ask and can make or break your purchase. Don't regret not asking for it.

  1. Test Drive 

  • Drive the car at low and high speeds, make sure it drives the way you want it to, NOT the way they tell you it should. 

  • Note of any weird noises or vibrations!

  • PRO TIP: Dealerships will fix ANYTHING you have a problem with, no matter how small. 

  1. Inspect the Car

  • Check all of the fluids, under the hood, check the tires and anything that you would use inside of the car like windows, radio and A/C.

  • Don't let the excitement of new car shopping let you pass over these key parts.

  1. Always get a warranty! 

  • Mechanics have  a saying “Pay me now, or pay me later.” 

  • At the end of the day, a car is just a machine and like all machines will need work down the road. When that time comes, be prepared. Don’t get caught off guard with no help. 

  • Please get a warranty, it just makes sense. 

  1. Don’t Pay More Than You Can Afford

  • Your car payment and insurance SHOULD NOT be more than 25% of your monthly income. 

  • Imagine driving a car you love, with a warranty, AND you can afford it! It seriously doesn’t get better. 

  1. Actually Read Your Contract

  • Let's be realistic here, most places want you to enjoy your car and refer friends and family. They aren’t going to have you sign your life away. BUT! Not everyone will tell you what all you're paying for and exactly how much you are spending.

  • Ask your dealer the following:

  1. When all is said and done, how much will I have paid?

  2. What do I need to pay today, and what does it go towards? 

  3. Are there prepayment penalties?

  • The majority of businesses will tell you the truth, but it’s always good to check and it tells them that you know what you’re talking about.


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