- Research Beforehand- Gather information on the make and model you’re interested in.
- Set a Budget-Determine how much you’re willing to spend, including potential additional costs.
- Vehicle History Report- Obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report to check for accidents, logbook issues. The earlier you know the better.
- Pre -Approved Financing- Secure financing before shopping to have a clear understanding of your budget and negotiating powers.
- Get a Professional Inspection- Consider having a trusted mechanic inspect the car for hidden issues before finalizing the purchase. Ensure also to have the under the hood inspection to examine the engine for leaks, which could indicate issues with the engine, transmission or other systems.
- Negotiate the Price- Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price based on your research and any issues you’ve identified during inspection incase you still like the vehicle.
- Test Drive- Take the car for a thorough test drive checking for unusual noises, vibrations or performance issues.
- Consider Fuel Efficiency-Factor in fuel efficiency and potential future maintenance costs to evaluate the overall cost of ownership.
- Verify Logbook and Registration- Ensure all paperwork is in order and there are no liens on the vehicle.
- Research Resale Value- Some brands and models retain their value better than others, affecting your potential future resale value incase you wish to sell.
How to know your vehicle is due for service
Owning a vehicle comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Recognizing the signs indicating when your car needs servicing can help prevent major issues and ensure your safety on the road.