Practices That Help You Find Affordable Used Cars

Buying a Second-hand Car

Buying a pre-owned car is a practical option today, especially for novice drivers and first-time car owners who are only now getting the hang of driving on busy roads. However, like anything else, buying a used car has its own share of advantages and disadvantages.

For starters, buying a used car is viable because of its economical feasibility. However, something you must consider doing is researching about the used car market and understanding the condition of the vehicle before buying. Along with the maintenance and the condition of the car, the authenticity of the documents must also be considered. If everything is in place and you are good to go, there is nothing like buying a well-maintained ore-owned car!

Advantages of Buying a Pre-owned Car

Most cars produced and launched in the last five years have quality and standard safety features like airbags, ABS, and reverse parking sensors inbuilt in them. These are the prime features a car user expects when buying a car. Interior-wise, these cars have a decent music system with USB, Bluetooth, and AUX connectivity. Why would anyone shell out more when they can readily avail such features of a new car in a well-maintained second-hand car?

One of the key advantages of a used car are cheaper insurance costs, as the insurance premium lessens with the aging of the car.

Used cars are undoubtedly a better choice for someone learning to drive or still a novice driver – especially in a busy city. A few scratches or dents are quite common when you begin to start driving and it is wise to buy a new car once you’re confident enough to take on the crowded Indian roads.

Disadvantages of buying a pre-owned Car

Going for an older, pre-owned car can be economical, but it also comes with a few potential cons. Listed here are a few key elements to consider when deciding if an older car is the right choice for you.

Older, used cars may require more recurrent maintenance and servicing, which can add up to be a little expensive.To maintain an older car and to keep it running, especially if the car is 8 to 10 years old, you have to change the engine oil at least 3 to 4 times per year. There might be more cost-incurring services like changing the battery, cleaning the air filters, and so on. If the used car that you bought is not in optimal condition then such costs can cost you quite a lot.

Older cars may not be as environmentally friendly as the newer cars that are launched, with less efficient emission control technologies and powertrains.

While buying a used car, which sure would be at least a couple of years old, you will get the features and updates of that period it was launched in – which is not a bad thing after all. You can always upgrade some of the car features; however, that would cost you additional surges. Therefore, if you are specific about the technology and relevance of updated features in the car, it kind of makes sense to buy a new car.

Practices That Can Find You a Good Used Car

Making the Decision

To begin with, understand what your requirement in a car is. Read reviews of the car you are eyeing to buy. Understand the pros and cons of the car and analyse if it will be suitable for your driving needs. Once you have understood which car you want, find out about the value of the car you are interested in. Prices will alter according to the year of manufacture, variant, condition of the car and even its colour. Familiarise yourself with the features of the car; this will help you in spotting things that may be missing in the car.

Setting the Budget

Understanding how much money you can shell out on buying a used car is a major step. You must also keep in mind how much you can stretch and whether it will impact your overall lifestyle. You must also consider proper options and deals while opting for a used car loan. If you are looking for financing, you must learn about the financier, their interest rates and such details. It is always advisable to never stretch beyond your set budget much because it is simply not worth it in the longer run.

Knowing the car well

Learn and know everything about the car which is being sold to you – from the distance it has covered, mileage, any wear and tear, insurance coverage, any past accidents, any repairs made, and so on.

Checking for faults and finding none

Check the condition of the car inside out. Drive the car around to feel if there are any unwanted sounds or noises from the inside of the vehicle.

Verifying the documents thoroughly

Verifying the documents like checking the warranty report, RC book details, insurance details, and perhaps the history of the car are all important steps to consider while buying a used car.

Knowing Whom to Buy It From

You must research and understand your options when it comes to buying a pre-owned car. There are several ways you can find a used car in your city. You can find one through an individual seller, used car brokers, and franchised pre-owned car dealers. You can find affordable used cars online through used cars portals like Gaadi Bazaar that have used cars, bikes and other vehicles listed for sale in your city.

Analysing what works best for you must be your first step towards buying a used car. There are many fraudsters in the market that can leave you with a bitter experience if you are not fully aware of what all can happen in this field. It is always better to opt for trusted sources to find a good used car for yourself.

The Final Word

Buying a pre-owned car has become a common thing today, especially in a busy country like India. However, there are several factors to keep in mind before making a purchase.

Here we have discussed how to make an informed decision while buying a used car. Be aware of all the things you need to keep in mind to find the perfect car for you. The above-given information is a product of our research and analysis. In case you have any other points that can be added to the list of information available above, please mention them in the comments section. Be smart, make smart choices…