Shopping for a used car near Brunswick, Freehold or Lawrence can leave you with more questions than answers if you’re not sure what to look for. To lemon-proof the used car shopping process, we put together a list of seven tips, which we’ve posted below.
Follow these used car buying tips to make your search as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
1. Establishing a Budget
Before you start looking for a car, figure out how much you can spend. Take factors like your salary, mortgage, student loan payments and monthly expenses into consideration. You should also find out your credit score and the interest rates you’re qualified for.
During your calculations, take the cost of your used car’s title, taxes, registration into account. These typically add another 10% to the car’s total purchase price. We know this is a lot of information but the financial consultants at Dayton Toyota can help you find a monthly payment plan you feel comfortable.
2. Vehicle Research
With resources like Dayton Toyota’s vehicle reviews and comparisons, finding a used vehicle that suits your lifestyle, budget and driving habits has never been easier. To figure out what you need, make a list of everything you need from your next vehicle.
Afterwards, figure out what you want from your next vehicle. Keep those handy as you research potential models and create a shopping list.
3. Talk to the Car’s Previous Owners
If it’s possible, interview a car’s previous owner to find out why they’re selling it and whether it’s experienced any problems. Have them describe how heavily the car was used, its condition and request copies of its maintenance records.
This is incredibly important. It can reveal whether a car has any defects, if it’s been in an accident and if it’s been well cared for. If you notice anything sketchy, walk away and continue with your search.
4. Get a History and Safety Report
Once you get to this point, write down the Vehicle’s Identification Number (VIN). This is a 17-digit code that you can find on a sticker on the driver’s-side door pillar, on top of the instrumental panel at the windshield’s base and in other places. If the numbers don’t match in these places, walk away.
A VIN number gives you access to its AutoCheck History Report, which will let you know if the vehicle’s been in past accidents or experienced damage. It will also highlight odometer discrepancies or describe any water damage.
You should also look up a car’s service records and its recall history on the NHSTA website. From there, have a mechanic give it a thorough inspection.
5. Check for Damage
Before purchasing a used car, look for damage on its body and in its cabin. Look for poor alignment, repainting, evidence of water damage or body repair, footpad wear and a cracked block. These could be hiding damage.
6. Take a Test Drive
Test driving a used car is arguably the most important step in the used car shopping process. This gives you the chance to try a car’s acceleration, braking and handling, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your lifestyle.
7. Negotiate A Car Loan
After you’ve found a used car you like, a dealership can help you find an auto loan that works with your monthly budget. They’ll go over your budget, credit score, available interest rates and help you find a plan you can afford.
Browse the Used Car Inventory at Dayton Toyota
When you’re shopping for a pre-owned car around Freehold, Lawrence and Brunswick, stop by Dayton Toyota to explore our pre-owned inventory. We have a wide selection of used cars, trucks, SUVs and crossovers to choose from and will help you find an auto loan that works in your budget.
You can browse our inventory online or at our showroom located at 2291 U.S. Route 130 South Brunswick, New Jersey. For immediate assistance, please call our sales department at (888) 927-6303 or contact us online.
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