How Do I Look For the Best Deal on a Pre-Owned Car?
There are just about too many places to shop for car buyers of today. From online classifieds to social media to websites, we’re flooded with choices and a seemingly infinite supply of cars. So where can you go to find the best deal on a pre-owned car? It boils down to 3 choices: a used car lot, a private seller, or a dealership. Each choice has its pros and cons, but when making such an important financial decision you want to give yourself the best opportunity of getting the best deal you can.
Shopping From the Local Auto Dealership
While a lot of folks will agree that it’s the most convenient way to buy a used car, some believe they can score a cheaper deal somewhere else. While you might get a lower price elsewhere (most likely with even more miles and with fewer guarantees on condition), absolutely nothing can beat the customer service we can provide.
Some of the advantages of buying your next vehicle here are:
Lots of Financing Options – We offer multiple ways to get you financed.
History Reports of the Vehicle – Know the history of the pre-owned car you might purchase.
Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles – We offer CPO cars for peace of mind.
Delivery of Your Vehicle – We deliver. Just ask. (Exclusions apply)
Convenient Open Hours – We’ve got long hours to be available when you need us.
Lots of Reviews – It is easy to see what other buyers think.
Pricing that is Fair – Our qualified vehicle professionals work hard to offer you fair prices.
Impressive Selection – Most dealers don’t have the same selection.
Buying Online – You can buy online if you can’t make it to the dealer.
Purchasing at a Pre-Owned Car Lot
An independent used car lot can offer a few of the same conveniences of a big dealership, like a large choice of cars and the possibility of browsing them online. You can still get a large selection of cars, trucks, or SUVs and the ability to view them online at an independent pre-owned car lot, but they also do present more risks to buyers. While some car lots could be an established part of the local area, many others tend to come and go almost overnight. Here are some of the other main differences between a dealership and a car lot:
Car Inspections – Inspections at car lots are generally not quite as thorough.
Mechanics – Limited on-site service technicians, possibly with minimal experience.
Car Quality – Be on the lookout for cars that have high miles with potentially dubious pasts.
No CPO – Certified Pre-Owned cars, trucks, and SUVs are only available at manufacturer-approved dealerships.
Pre-Sale Repairs – ‘Quick fixes’ may be utilized to maximize profits and save money.
Reputation – Some used car lots choose profitability over customers.
Vehicle Financing – If they even offer financing, their rates are generally higher than most.
Purchasing from Independent Sellers
If you’re searching for a specific vehicle, especially an older vehicle, then a personal seller may be your best option. You may get a seemingly great price, but you accept nearly all of the risk in this situation. You would be in charge of all of the features found here at the dealership:
Reviews – Good luck finding much info. Can you trust the seller?
History of the Car – If you want a history report, you will be paying for it.
Payments – Many personal sellers want cash, but you can also try financing through your bank. Your options are smaller either way.
Warranty – Buyer Beware, Caveat Emptor
Pre-Purchase Maintenance Inspections – An inspection by a 3rd party is suggested before you purchase a used car, but you are responsible for the cost.
The Current Condition of the Car – There might be underlying or unknown reasons for selling the vehicle.
Visit Gene Messer Chevrolet for Used Cars & Trucks
Gene Messer Chevrolet welcomes you to discover our excellent selection of used cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans for sale in Lubbock, TX. Buy, sell, trade, or even get pre-approved for financing, online or in-person. We offer quality, convenience, and competitive pricing that you can count on. Visit our Lubbock area used car lot today. We look forward to serving you.
