For first-time car buyers, used car lots look almost the same. To make sure you’re getting the best deal, it’s important to gather as much information as you can beforehand. Buying a car soon? Use this guide to help you with the car-buying process at used car lots in Chicago.

Your budget

Whether you are buying a used car with cash or taking out a loan, the first thing is to determine how much you can afford. It’s important to find out early on whether your car payments could fit in your budget. You should not be spending more than 20 percent of your take-home salary to pay for a vehicle. If you have a tighter budget, you may even need to spend less or reduce the amount you can pay. Also, you have to remember that used cars may need more attention based on their age or condition. It means added expense for maintenance, potential repairs, parts replacement and the like.

Target car models

When buying second hand vehicles from used car lots, it would help if you create a list of your target cars. There are some brands that make great used cars. There are also some that are only ideal when they are brand new. If you’re working with a budget and don’t want to compromise quality, consider many makes and models. Create a list of three or more cars that fit your budget and meet your needs.

Used car prices

Now that you have already built a list of your target used cars, it’s time to check prices from different dealers. Prices also vary in used car lots. To make sure that you get the best deal and lowest selling price, take time to explore your options. Also make sure that you’re buying your used vehicle from a reputable dealer. Choose a used car dealer that can give you all the vital information and details about the vehicle you want to buy. They must be able to present a history report to make sure that you’ll have peace of mind with the car you’ll be driving home.

Car’s mileage and history

It is riskier to buy a used car than a brand new one. You’ll never know if it was in an accident, involved in a crime or if it was stolen. This is why the vehicle’s history report is important. If the car you’re planning to buy has a bad history report, don’t push through the transaction. Also, take time to check the mileage on the vehicle you’re considering. As much as possible, avoid the cars with a mileage of more than 60,000 kilometers. Chances are their parts might have already worn out.

Red flags

Don’t buy any used car without doing a thorough inspection. If you must, bring a trusted technician with you. Have your technician inspect the body, as well as every nook and cranny. Try to look for any signs of flooding, accident and other damages. Some red flags to watch out for include inconsistencies in the paint quality, broken components, and mismatched tires.

Clean interior

One of the indications that a car has been well taken care of by the previous owner is the car’s interior. Is the interior clean? Does it have broken parts, stains, ripped upholstery or a funky smell? If it is all good, it means the previous owner took very good care of the vehicle. Also check interior technology to make sure they are working well.

Good test drive results

To make sure that a used car is the right one for you, never skip the test drive. This will help you assess the overall condition of the vehicle. If the used car dealer refuses to let you drive the car for a test, walk away and look for another reputable dealer.

Buying a second hand car from used car lots in Chicago can be smooth-sailing when you used this guide. If you’re looking for high quality used vehicles that will fit your budget and your needs, please visit The Auto Warehouse.