Cox Chrysler Jeep Dodge

 
Cox Dodge knows car shoppers want a great deal on their next vehicle purchase.  There are plenty of good used cars out there, but you need to be careful before you make any decisions about your purchase. By following these top tips, the vehicle you choose could last you for many years.

Here are a few tips on how to purchase your next car:

Decide on the right car for you. Let's be honest with ourselves.  This could mean passing on that great 2-seater sports car for a 7-passenger vehicle.  Don't just look at what is happening with you today,  but try to look in the future. How do you see yourself using the vehicle?  

Look for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles. This is a great way to purchase a great car. If a warranty is important to you then this is a great way to go. The dealer must complete a comprehensive inspection and provide a limited warranty. Also by checking the mileage, the vehicle could still have remaining factory warranty on it.

Do Your Homework - Check all available resources and data.  You have started your homework by finding this tip sheet. Now check out consumer reports and automotive magazines, about the car you are interested in.

Use an online calculator to figure out payments. . Take a close hard look at your budget. Can you afford another monthly payment and how much? Also, how will your insurance be affected with this vehicle purchase? If you can make a downpayment, then this will help in lowering your monthly payments. Do you want to consider a brand new car? A new car can bring manufacturer's warranties and reduced financing. Also, take a look at buying the car out right. If you are lucky enough to have money put away, is it worth taking that money and paying for the vehicle in full?

Check the Sources.  By buying from a reputable dealership that means the dealer has a past history with other satisfied customers. You can search them by name to read their reviews. If you are buying from a private seller ask to see the title to the vehicle you want to purchase. Check to make sure the name on the title is the same on their driver license.

Ask for a Vehicle History Report. Most reputable dealers will provide a free vehicle history report such as CarFax on request. This report will show where the car was purchased and if the car has been in an accident. Just a word of warning, not all information is disclosed on a carfax report. Sometimes it takes a couple of months for the data to be reported.

Now it's time to hit the road. If you hear - sorry we don't let people test drive our cars, it's time to change dealerships. No questions asked leave! Your test drive should last at least 15 minutes. Get in and drive the way you drive every day. Pull into a wide open parking lot. Push and pull all the buttons and knobs to make sure each work correctly. One item that you might over look is the feel-of-the-seat. If this is a vehicle you will take on long trips make sure the seat fits comfortably. Don't forget about your passengers, ask them how they feel.

Inspect the Car in the Daytime. If you do it after dark you won't really be able to assess the condition of the vehicle. Remember things can hide in the darkness. If you are buying at night pull the car into a well-lit area.

Take an up close look. This should be done by someone that knows what to look for. Look at the bodylines. Check to make sure they line up. Check the paint from front to back. Open and close the doors. Does the vehicle have any rust showing? Understand rust is very difficult to hide and repair. There are very few exceptions to the rust rule.

Lift the Hood. Again if you need help with this don't be afraid to ask for help from a professional. Let the vehicle sit in one place after you have taken it for a test drive. Check the hoses for leaks and worn belts. Pull the dipstick and look at the oil, is it dirty or burnt? The automatic transmissions fluid should be clear and reddish. Look around the engine compartment is it oily or clean? Look at the air cleaner, is it clean? Look under the vehicle checking for any damage.

Oil in the Tailpipe!
This could indicate a serious and expensive motor problem.

In side vehicle condition.  Open the doors and step back. Take a look at the seats; is there excessive wear and tear? Look at the door panels, make sure no one uses their feet to open the door. Jump in and crank up the vehicle. Make sure all warning lights and gauges work. Look down under your feet and check out the carpet.

Tires. Make sure they're all in decent condition. Confirm that the spare is with the vehicle along with a jack, if one came with the car?

Here are some quick tip check list:

Check the air conditioning for cold air, and heater/defroster for warm air.
Make sure the exhaust isn't pumping out black or blue smoke or making excessive noise.
Make sure the emergency brake holds on a hill, and releases easily without sticking.  
Make sure the brakes stop smoothly without pulsating, squeaking or grinding.  
Accelerate going up a hill to determine engine strength and smoothness.  
Pay attention to how the automatic transmission shifts.  

WOW - this seams like a lot to do just to purchase a vehicle and yes it is! Remember, this vehicle is one of your largest investments you make. Why not take your time? Car accident statistics show that poorly maintained vehicles can play a major cause in car accidents. Ask questions then ask more questions. Knowledge is power. Know and understand the vehicle you want, it's your money. Good luck in finding your next vehicle.