Why Buy a Used Vehicle?
Well, thanks to the fact that some new cars (not so much Buick or GMC vehicles, but many others), lose as much as ten percent of their value by their first birthday, and almost 40 percent by year four, buying a used vehicle makes more sense today than ever before. Also, modern cars, trucks, and SUVs run better and last longer than ever before. Do your homework and you may be able to find an amazing bargain on a vehicle that looks and runs brand new. So, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly, pre-owned Buick Enclave, or a gently used GMC Sierra pickup, here are a few tips that can help.
Start With a Budget
Be it new or used, the first step in the buying process is settling on a budget. Some experts recommend spending about ten to fifteen percent of your net income on car-related expenses. But remember, that figure includes gas, maintenance, and insurance. Also, factor in the value of your trade, (if you have one), and any down payment.
Consider Your Needs
Armed with your budget, give some thought to what type of vehicle best suits your lifestyle. Will you use your new ride mostly for family road trips, or will it be for daily commuting? How important are ride quality, amenities, fuel mileage, and so on? Make a list of your must-haves, would like to have, and don’t really care about features. Once you settle on a type of vehicle, let the hunt begin.
Should I Buy From a Private Party?
If you’re a gambler and trying to save a few dollars, you may consider buying from a private party. But, don’t forget that most people sell their vehicles privately in order to avoid the scrutiny that comes with trading them in. In many cases, the vehicle has some major issues that will hurt its trade-in value. In the long run, the few bucks you save up front could end up costing you big in the long run.
Don't Forget the Vehicle History Report
At Gerry Lane Buick GMC, we provide a free Carfax history report for every used vehicle we sell. Among other information, a Carfax history report can tell you if the car has been in an accident (and if so, how severe), the actual mileage, how many previous owners it has had, and where and how often the vehicle was serviced. If a dealer doesn’t offer a free history report, it’s probably time to move on to the next option.
Do a Thorough Inspection
Be methodical in your inspection when you ultimately find the car of your dreams. Because it is so easy to get overwhelmed (hopefully with excitement) during the buying process, you might want to have a checklist handy. A checklist will keep you focused on the job at hand. So, do your homework and you may be able to score an incredible bargain on a vehicle that looks and runs like the day it left the showroom.
Stop in at Gerry Lane Buick GMC
At Gerry Lane Buick GMC, we take the stress out of buying a pre-owned vehicle. Our large inventory and friendly, no-pressure sales team make finding the perfect used car, truck, or SUV a breeze. Our expert finance professionals will help you find a deal that fits your budget. And, our factory-trained service technicians stand behind every vehicle we sell. Gerry Lane Buick GMC - Louisiana’s most trusted name for new and pre-owned Buick and GMC vehicles.
