Don’t get stuck with a lemon! Follow our complete used car buying checklist to help you find a reliable, road-ready vehicle that fits your needs and budget.
Buying a used car can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. While the idea of snagging a great deal is thrilling, questions about the car’s condition and reliability can make the process feel overwhelming. How do you ensure you’re making a smart purchase and not signing up for a lemon? What if the car feels and sounds good now but leaves you stranded in a month?
This used car buying guide will arm you with everything you need to confidently choose a dependable ride. Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealership, this checklist will cover what to look for in used cars, what to avoid when buying a used car, and the right questions to ask before sealing the deal.
Unlike new vehicles, used cars have a history that can impact their performance and lifespan. By knowing what to look for, you can avoid hidden pitfalls and make an informed decision. Here’s your ultimate checklist:
Before diving into the buying process, identify what you need in a car. Are you seeking fuel efficiency, family-friendly space, or off-road capability? Research makes and models that align with your lifestyle. Take note of factors like reliability ratings, maintenance costs, fair market prices, and resale value.
Once you’ve identified a few makes and models, jot down your must-haves. Do you need all-wheel drive? Is a backup camera non-negotiable? Knowing your priorities will keep you focused, narrow your search, and ensure you’re not wasting time looking at vehicles that don’t meet your needs.
Next, decide whether you’ll shop at a dealership or go the private seller route. While private sellers may sometimes offer lower prices, reputable dealerships provide peace of mind, especially when they offer Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles.
CPO vehicles undergo rigorous car inspections and often come with warranties. For instance, visiting your local Ed Hicks Nissan gives you access to a wide range of used and CPO vehicles you can trust. If reliability and a smoother buying process are your priorities, a dealership is the way to go.
First impressions matter, and the car’s exterior tells a story. Once you’ve arrived at your dealer of choice, inspect the vehicle’s body for mismatched paint (this could be a sign of prior damage), dents, scratches, and signs of rust. Small imperfections may seem cosmetic, but can sometimes point to previous accidents, significant damage, or neglect.
You’ll also want to look at:
Once you’re satisfied with the exterior, it’s time to check inside. Start by sitting in the driver’s seat. Does it feel comfortable? Check for wear and tear on the seats, carpets, and dashboard. Take note of any strange smells—musty or moldy odors could be a clue to past water damage.
Note: A strong smell of air freshener could also be masking something less pleasant, like mold or smoke damage.
Turn your attention to the dashboard. Does the mileage align with the car’s age? While higher mileage isn’t always a bad thing, excessive wear on a relatively new vehicle might indicate rough usage. And, illuminated warning lights could mean costly repairs are needed.
Finally, test all electronics, from the infotainment system and locks to the power windows, heat, and air conditioning. Functionality issues here could be pricey to fix.
While you might focus on the parts of the car you can see and touch easily, don’t neglect the undercarriage. It’s where hidden problems often lurk. If you’re unsure what you’re looking at, a trusted mechanic’s input can be invaluable.
Even if you’re not a mechanic, knowing what to avoid when buying a used car starts with the engine bay. These components are the backbone of your car’s reliability and safety.
Don’t skip these steps:
Finally, start the engine and listen. A smooth purr is what you’re after, not knocking or ticking sounds. If something doesn’t look or feel right, it’s worth asking questions or bringing in a trusted mechanic to evaluate the car.
Never skip the test drive. This is your chance to experience the car’s handling, braking, and comfort. Drive on various road types to see how it performs at different speeds. Do you feel any vibrations or hear unusual noises? Does the steering wheel pull to one side? These could indicate alignment or mechanical problems. You’ll also want to test the brakes in different scenarios, such as sudden stops and gradual slowing.
Ask yourself how the car feels overall. A vehicle might look great on paper, but if it doesn’t inspire confidence on the road, it’s probably not the right choice.
Knowing what to avoid is just as crucial as knowing what to check. Here are a few things to watch out for:
Avoiding these pitfalls can save you from costly mistakes and headaches.
Before signing on the dotted line, ask the right questions. Start with the vehicle’s history. Request a vehicle history report to uncover details about previous owners, accidents, and service records. If buying from a private seller, ask why they’re selling and how they’ve maintained the car.
When shopping at a dealership, inquire about warranties, return policies, and whether the vehicle is Certified Pre-Owned. An Ed Hicks Nissan CPO vehicle, for example, has been meticulously inspected and comes with an extended warranty, giving you unmatched peace of mind.
While buying from a private seller might seem enticing, dealerships offer several advantages. Beyond access to Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, dealerships often have financing options, trade-in programs, and trained professionals who can guide you through the process.
Plus, a dealership like Ed Hicks Nissan ensures the cars on their lot meet high standards, so you’re less likely to encounter unpleasant surprises.
Ready to buy a used car with peace of mind? Come to Ed Hicks Nissan, where we offer a great selection of certified pre-owned vehicles. Every car in our Certified Pre-Owned inventory meets high standards for quality and reliability, so you can feel confident about your choice.
Visit us today to explore our CPO options and take a test drive—our team is here to answer all your questions and make the buying process easy!
