When it comes to buying a used car, the experience can be as fun as getting a cavity filled: nerve wracking, overwhelming, and makes you more than a little apprehensive. Opting for a used car is a great budget-friendly alternative to a new model, but how do you know what the next step is?
Don’t worry! Our team at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM is here to help! We’ve created a step-by-step guide to buying a used car, from setting a budget down to the moment you drive your new car off our lot.
Keep reading as we lay out all you need to know about the used car-buying process, then head to one of the car lots near you to get started!
1. Create a Realistic Budget
The first–and most important–step when buying a car is setting a realistic budget. There are two ways to pay for a used car: paying the full price out-of-pocket or taking out a loan. If you choose to pay for the car in cash, set aside how much you can comfortably pay while still leaving money in your savings account for the unexpected.
Keep in mind there is more to the cost of a car than just the price tag. You’ll also want to set aside funds for the registration, car insurance, and possible maintenance repairs. By nature, used cars may need services earlier than a new car, so be prepared for a possible tune-up.
While paying for the car in full is an option, most car-buyers will choose to take out a loan. If you plan to borrow money to finance your used car, factor a monthly payment into your overall budget. By budgeting it out with your mortgage or rent, child care, utilities and other expenses, it will give you a realistic picture of what you can afford in a monthly car loan.
If you’re trading in a vehicle, finding out the approximate value of your trade-in can help you better understand what your monthly payments on a new car will be.
2. Research, Research, Research!
Now that you’ve created a budget and have a better understanding of what you can afford, it’s time to shop around for used cars in Pawleys Island! Create a list of features you need in a car. Do you need a midsize SUV for family activities? Are the off-road capabilities of a used Wrangler a necessity?
Start by establishing the must-haves in your future vehicle and compile a list of possible contenders for your new car. If you don’t have a starting point, consider the following options when shopping for a vehicle:
- Fuel economy
- Safety ratings
- Cost to insure
- Size and performance
Shop our online used car inventory at South Strand CDJR to help you get started with available used cars for sale near you.
3. Used or Certified Pre-Owned?
Do you still feel skeptical about purchasing a used car? Consider our certified pre-owned cars for sale! Certified pre-owned vehicles offer the affordability of a used car with the warranty coverage and detailed inspection status of a brand-new ride.
Certified pre-owned, or CPO, cars have undergone a comprehensive inspection and have met strict guidelines set forth by the original manufacturer. While most used cars are sold as-is, CPO cars come with manufacturer warranties, providing great coverage for your car and potential perks.
CPO cars can only be found at franchised dealerships. For example, a Jeep Grand Cherokee for sale can only be labeled as CPO at a Jeep dealership. If a Jeep is advertised as certified pre-owned at a Ford dealership, it is not actually a certified pre-owned vehicle.
4. Find Your Financing
If you’re planning on paying for your car in full, you can skip to the next section!
Most used-car buyers will look to a loan for help in financing their new car. For those that purchase from South Strand CDJR, you’re in luck! With our auto loan and finance center, we make getting behind the wheel of a used vehicle a breeze!
Our finance specialists will customize a payment plan designed specifically for your needs, tailoring it to match your monthly budget. We offer a payment calculator tool that allows you to compare different models and financing options.
Trading in your old vehicle? Our trade-in appraisal tool refers to various sources to get an accurate estimate of your vehicle’s value. Even if you choose not to purchase a vehicle with South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, we’ll still offer you top dollar for your trade-in. What more could you want out of a dealership in Pawleys Island, SC?
5. Test Drive and Buy!
Here’s what the car-buying process is all about–the test drive! After you’ve determined your budget and researched your car options, it’s time for the fun to begin! Head on down to a car dealership near you to start test driving your dream ride.
Here, you’ll learn what vehicle feels right and which ones fall short of perfection. Before you take the vehicle for a spin, try adjusting the seats, listening to the engine and taking note of the controls. The initial moments before the drive allow you to get fully immersed in what your used car has to offer or where it can be improved.
During the drive, assess how the car feels. Does it drive with ease and precision? Does it jolt when you hit the gas or step on the brakes? Take mental notes of what feels right and what doesn’t. This will help you narrow down the features you want in your dream used car and make you feel more confident when it's time to sign and buy!
Check Out Our Used Car Inventory at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM!
Whether you’re shopping for a new, certified pre-owned, or used car near you, South Strand CDJR aims to make the car-buying process hassle-free. Our qualified team will help you find the car that fits your needs, in a budget that brings you confidence and peace of mind.
If you find yourself in need of an auto loan, our in-house finance team is available to help you customize a budget to fit your needs and find the vehicle that works for you.
Buying a used car can be overwhelming, but our professional team is here to help every step of the way. Visit us at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM for a test drive today!