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How do I choose a secondhand car?
I'm looking to buy a used car for my family, but I'm worried about getting ripped off. How can I be sure that the car I'm buying is safe and a good deal?
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“There are certainly risks that come with buying a used car, so it’s good that you’re doing your homework first. Before you make the leap and buy the car, research its value, look the interior and exterior over thoroughly, and take it for a spin.
Assess the market value: You’ll want to make sure you
know what the car is worth
before you hand over your money. The first step in this process is to look up the market value of the car.Generally, the
Kelley Blue Book
is a trusted source for evaluating whether or not the vehicle you’re considering is appropriately priced. For the most accurate assessment, you’ll need to know the make, model, year, mileage, and condition of the car you’re looking to buy, as well as any features that could increase or decrease its value.Inspect the car: This goes along with the point above. Make sure the car is in good condition, inside and out. Don’t forget the engine, either; if the engine is dirty, the car may have been poorly maintained. Check for oil spills, cracks, or any other damage to the engine to avoid paying more than you bargained for in repairs.
Check the car for any weird smells, too. Is the owner a smoker? Has the back of the SUV been home to a wet dog or two? Your nose could help you detect more serious problems, as well. If you smell burning oil or gas, that may be a sign of an engine problem.
Be sure the car is comfortable for you and for your family. If you have any pets, make sure there’s adequate room if you plan to take them on car rides.
Go on a test drive: You’ll want to take the test drive seriously in a used car. Does the sound system work? Are the amenities (like steering or window controls) working as you expected? Are there any glaring warning lights that you hadn’t been made aware of?
If you notice any flaws in the car that you didn’t expect, you’ll want to renegotiate. Test drives give you the chance to be sure that a car handles like you expect it to. It also is meant to ensure that the
brakes
are functional, the car shifts smoothly, and there isn’t any unexpected or colorful smoke coming from the exhaust pipe.Visit a mechanic: In some cases, you’ll be able to get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic. You may have to pay an associated fee, but it’ll be worth it to know that the car is functioning as it should.
Check your insurance policy: When you buy a new car, you need to update your insurance. The
Jerry
app can help you figure out if you’re paying more than you should for your policy and provide you with competitive quotes from top name-brand providers—for free.”View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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