Buying a Used Car

Regardless if it's your first time buying a car, it always seems like a daunting task in the beginning. If you watch TV or have heard car commercials on the radio, you've likely heard terminology like "down payments and "APR" thrown around. Although some of this terminology may sound confusing at first, once you break it down, the car buying process is pretty straightforward. There is a good deal of information that you need to comprehend before you rush off to the dealership ready to buy the first vehicle that strikes your fancy. Once you have a good understanding of what all the acronyms mean and how car financing works, you'll be ready to negotiate the best price for the car you desire.

The first thing you need to decide before you begin your automobile search is whether you want to buy a new or used car. For those on a budget, and that inevitably includes many of us during these hard economic times, used is the best way to go. Many car shoppers know that a new car depreciates by as much as 20 percent the moment it is driven off the lot. Buying used means you can avoid taking this initial depreciation hit. This is why so many bargain hunters prefer to buy their vehicles used, and yet for many, buying used can seem like a risky gamble. Below is a list of steps you can take to assist you I making a smart buy when you go used car shopping .

Do Thorough Investigation - Look for as many resources or data that you can find on the car you are planning to buy, such as consumer reports or automotive magazines.

Look It Over - Do a complete survey of the vehicle's condition. Make sure all the parts line up, doors open and close correctly, paint looks good and tires have even wear.

Lift the Hood - Raise up the hood and look for any dirty oil, leaky hoses or worn belts. The transmission fluid should be clear and reddish, and shouldn't smell burned. Radiator water should be colored lightly green or yellow.

Take a Seat - Sit in the driver's seat and turn the ignition to ensure that all of the gauges and warning lights are working. Then start the car up to back sure all the important dashboard lights and accessories work and ensure that none of the warning lights stay lit. You should especially be aware of the airbag warning lights.

Listen - With the dealer's permission, race the engine for a few quick bursts. Listen for loud tapping noises and watch for excessive smoke.

Hit the Road - Take the vehicle out onto the road and get it up to a speed of approximately 35 mph. Check to ensure it shifts smoothly and that steering is straight. Listen for rear-end whines and if the car bounces or shakes this usually means the tires are out of balance. .

Double-Check Sources - Are you purchasing through the classifieds? Check the name on the title and match it to the drivers license of the seller. Many unregulated and unlicensed dealers will disguise themselves as private sellers.

Rely on a Pro - Always get a trustworthy and qualified mechanic to inspect a pre-purchase vehicle.

Search for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles - Dealers will typically carry out complete inspections and offer a limited warranty in addition to any remaining on the original for Certified Pre-Owned cars.

The are just some of the important guidelines that you need to keep in mind as you begin looking as used cars. These are many additional facets to keep in mind as you search around like the the cost of gas, car maintenance, insurance and taxes just to name a few.Many car buyers find used cars to be an excellent value for the money, providing them with reliable transportation at a price they can afford. Keep the above mentioned tips in mind to help you more effectively evaluate the next used car or truck you buy. You should also bring along a family member or friend with you to the used car dealership who has been through the car buying process as well, and remember, if in doubt, check it out!