Steps To Buying Your First Used Car

Otherwise hop in and take it for a drive.

Steps to buying your first used car. If you re satisfied with the above then the next stage of our first car buying guide is to take the car for a test drive. Car buying began in parallel with the first car sold. If you re buying used make sure you verify reports from independent sources about the vehicle s history from places like carfax and don t buy a car you can t test drive. Take the vehicle for a pre purchase inspection. Even if you re buying online more on that below there should be a risk free period of driving.

If you are buying a used car from a private seller you will almost always have to wait in line at the dmv and pay several hundred dollars to get the vehicle transferred and registered. A completed emissions test. Before you register your car you will need. Buying your first car can be exciting but there s a lot to manage. Interest rates favor large down payments and new cars over used cars but regardless your budget will be the primary driver in what you can buy.

And despite credit given to karl benz for the automobile s invention we ve not been able to find its first time. Research online what the current wholesale price aka trade in price is for the car based on its condition mileage. Subtract all costs from your income. First a little history. A completed vehicle safety inspection.

If the owner or dealer doesn t want you to then walk away. Your monthly car loan payment should be less than the resulting figure. During a pre purchase inspection a mechanic will give the used vehicle a detailed examination to determine the cosmetic mechanical and safety conditions of the vehicle. The title in your name. Keeping your budget top of mind is one of the most important tips for how to buy a car within your means.

Don t get swept away by the excitement of getting your first car. So set a budget whether it s 10 000 20 000 or 30 000. And unlike a new car or leased car that comes with complimentary maintenance the responsibility of servicing a used car will be on you. Planning ahead can help make the process easier and help ensure you end up with the best car for you. Here are some important things to keep in mind as you start shopping for your first car.