10 STEPS TO BUYING A USED CAR IN JEFFERSON CITY, MO

Many people are in the market for used cars for sale in JEFFERSON CITY, MO. Across the country as many as 40 million cars are handled between dealership sales and private-party annually. The market is flooded with different cars and finding the right JEFFERSON CITY used car can be a challenge for the buyer. Below is a list of steps that will help you find and buy the best used car. More help can be sought from the Rusty Drewing Chevrolet Buick GMC sales team.

1 - WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?

How much can you afford to spend on a car? Remember, if you are securing a loan to finance your car, the payment should not be more than 20% of your monthly income. Used cars might cost more in terms of maintenance: you might need new tires and paint among other things. Ownership costs that shoppers forget to account for include things like insurance and fuel.

If you decide to buy a car that is out of warranty, it is advisable to have 'just-in-case' funds set aside to cover for any unexpected purchases and repairs.

2 - CREATE A LIST OF USED CARS FOR SALE IN JEFFERSON CITY, MO

The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord should be up on the list of good used car models. The downside is that they are more expensive than comparable models such as the Kia Optima and Ford Fusion. So depending on whether or not brand is important to you can decide the best option. You will find great information on our website, which will guide your choices.

If you decide to buy a car that is less than five years old, consider a certified pre-owned (CPO) one. CPO vehicles come with long term warranties backed by the dealership, and more importantly the carmakers. Remember that franchised dealerships that sell brand new models are the only ones licensed to sell CPO cars of a brand.

3 - CHECK THE PRICES

Car prices vary, depending on where you are shopping. Used cars can be found in the sections for used cars new-car dealers, independent lots, and established dealerships like Rusty Drewing Chevrolet Buick GMC . There are also websites where private dealers list their cars for sale. Private-party sellers typically sell vehicles at a price a shade lower than dealerships but there are a lot more potential red flags. The most costly are certified pre-owned vehicles (CPO), but these come with a host of value-added benefits and peace of mind.

4 - FIND USED CARS FOR SALE IN JEFFERSON CITY, MO

Our on-site search can help you find a used car for you in JEFFERSON CITY, MO. Browse our wide range of available used vehicles and get in touch about any vehicles that take your fancy.

5 - CONSIDER A CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED VEHICLE

Certified Pre-Owned Ford cars guarantee some of the best deals. Certified Fords are taken through 172 inspection points before being released for sale. These are such rigorous checks that ensure the consumer gets the best quality possible. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars come with several warranties plus a 24-hour roadside assistance.

The inspections focus on these areas:

  • The history of the vehicle, ownership and the previous maintenance. 
  • Road tests for performance and safety. 
  • Complete examinations of the exterior and interior features. 
  • Engine maintenance. 

6 - CONTACT THE SELLER

You can contact us online, give us a phone call, or simply drop on in to see the used car for sale in JEFFERSON CITY that you are most interested in.

7 - GO FOR A TEST-DRIVE

This is the best way to tell whether or not the car is the right make for you. It will tell you the condition of the car. Remember to check the following:

  • The ease with which you get in and out of the car. 
  • The amount of headroom, and legroom. Move to the backseat and feel the same. 
  • The comfort of the driving position. Does the steering wheel adjust? 
  • Seat comfort. Can they be adjustable? Look for the driver's lumbar support. 
  • Visibility. Are the side mirrors and rearview mirrors well positioned? Are there any potential blind spots? 
  • What is the condition of the tires? 
  • Are the brakes functioning well and reliable? 
  • Is the air-conditioning working well? 

8 - CAR INSPECTION

If you have settled on a car you like, get a mechanic to inspect it before buying. You can get a good mechanic by reading local shop reviews from Yelp or Google. The cost of an inspection is about $100 and can reveal some hidden problems.

Most JEFFERSON CITY used car dealers allow you to borrow the car and take it to a mechanic for inspection. CPO vehicles do not need inspection by a mechanic. An inspection is done before the sale, and a warranty is also in place.

9 - NEGOTIATE THE BEST DEAL

Negotiating should not be stressful. Plan early to improve your chances of making a good deal easily and quickly:
  • Setting a budget will tell you how much you are willing to spend on a car. 
  • Begin at an offer lower than your predetermined budget. This offer should be based on the average price of the car. 
  • Convince the seller to settle on a price close to the average price. 

10 - DO THE PAPERWORK

The paperwork in a dealership involves signing the contract in the insurance and finance office. Optionally include additional items such as fabric protection, warranty, prepaid services or anti-theft devices.

Extended warranties are some of the items that give most buyers peace of mind. CPO vehicles come with warranties and save the buyer a lot of hassle. Contracts should include information such as vehicle cost, documentation fee, a charge for a smog certificate, license fee and sales tax.