Research Before You Shop
You should decide exactly what you're looking for in a used car and do extensive research on different makes and models before you ever set foot on a dealership lot. Are advanced safety features important to you? Is fuel efficiency a concern? Do you need a roomy interior? Make a list of a few potential used cars that fit your needs before you begin shopping. Once you have your top 3, look up their value in the Kelley Blue Book so you're familiar with fair pricing.
Start Browsing
Your next step in the car-buying process is to start seeing what's available at local dealerships. Thanks to the internet, the easiest way to do this is to visit a dealership's web site to look at all the used cars montgomery al they have available. Using your list of cars that fit your criteria, do a search on their website. If they have any of your potential cars in stock at a fair price, it may be time to visit the dealership for an up-close look and a test drive.
Investigate the Car's History
When you're looking at a car on the lot, be sure to ask the dealer about the history of the car before you even consider purchasing it. Reputable dealers are usually able to provide you with a detailed history of a car's previous accidents and ownership. In some cases, your dealer may also be able to give you a maintenance history. If for some reason this information isn't available at the dealership, you can look up the records yourself on the internet using the car's VIN number. Steer clear of car's that have been involved in heavy accidents or flooding or have a history of mechanical issues.
It is possible to find a good deal on a quality used car. Keep the tips above in mind, and don't let a dealer pressure you into a sale too soon.
