4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Used Car

If you are thinking it is time to upgrade your set of wheels, there is a lot to consider. Of course, changing your car is an exciting time, with the prospect of a newer and faster model, but there are risks involved with purchasing a second-hand car, and with that in mind, here are a few common mistakes to avoid.

• Exceeding your Budget – It is oh so easy to fall in love with a car that you can’t afford, and if you let your heart rule your head, you could end up with very high monthly payments that you simply can’t afford. There are used car dealers in Canberra with vehicles to suit every budget and prior to looking at cars, you should already know the price range you can afford and if you have the self-discipline to stick to your budget, you won’t have money issues at a later date.

• Failing to Research the Vehicle – The seller might tell you how wonderful the car is, but you should do your own research. Does the car have a full service history? Has it ever been in an accident? If you are not an expert on cars, ask a good friend to accompany you and let them inspect the car on your behalf. If you buy from a dealer, then you will get a warranty, which gives you some peace of mind, and unless you are very knowledgeable, avoid buying from a private seller.

• Making a Hasty Decision – You might, for example, see a car that looks perfect for you, but you could see yet another one later on, that is even better, so it pays to be patient and take your time looking at various car dealers that offer used vehicles. Many buyers have made this mistake, and, of course, if you see a great bargain after you agreed to buy another car, it’s too late.

• Buying an Unsuitable Car – You might, for example, love the idea of a soft top sports car, who wouldn’t? Yet if you have a young family, this will not be ideal. Some people invest in an off-road 4×4, yet they have no plans to go off-road, so you should buy a car that best meets your practical needs.

By avoiding the above mistakes, you will be happy with your purchase and hopefully, you will have many years of driving pleasure.