There are plenty of options to consider and decisions to be made when purchasing a used car, and our team at Murphy Auto Group is here to help guide you through them. To help shoppers in Augusta and North Augusta, GA, and Aiken, SC, get ready, we’ve put together a handy used car buying checklist provided below!
A first step that can help you in deciding which used car is right for you is to figure out your budget. Decide how much you’ll want to save up for a down payment: Most experts suggest 10% of the total price when purchasing a used car.
For assistance in setting your budget, you can take advantage of our site’s online financing tools. Visit our Payment Calculator to explore potential monthly payment options, or swing by our Value Your Trade tool to assess the value of your current vehicle if you’re thinking of trading it in.
Whether you’re buying new or used, an important step is research. First, start with what type of vehicle you’re looking for: a sedan for your daily commutes? An SUV for family trips? Or maybe a truck to handle heavy hauls? Shop around different dealers to see what’s available for your needs, and create a shortlist of your top choices.
If you’re checking any models out in person, feel free to ask questions to find out more about your potential vehicle. Also, take the opportunity to inspect the exterior to make sure it’s up to your expectations.
Once you’re confident in what you want, it’s time to take your top candidates for a spin with a test drive. This is the best way to get a feel for how a vehicle operates. You’ll want to keep in mind the sound of the engine, as well as other aspects like:
This is also a great time to inspect the interior of the vehicle to make sure it’s free of any odors, and that the upholstery is comfortable and appropriately worn.
Before making your final decision, be sure to get a copy of the Vehicle History Report. This will give you a clear insight on the vehicle’s current condition, including previous owners and any previous maintenance or body work.
Usually, this can be provided by the dealer or private seller. You can get it from services like AutoCheck®, or CARFAX® by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that can be found on the driver’s side of the dashboard.
If you follow the list above, you should be ready to get behind the wheel of the used car you’ve been dreaming of. If you have further questions, our team at Murphy Auto Group is here to help. Drivers around Augusta and North August, Georgia, or in Aiken, South Carolina, can feel free to contact our team!
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