10 August 2018 · Motoring Tips & Advice
What to Look for When Buying a Used Car | Phil Gilbert Hyundai
Regardless of whether you plan on purchasing a used car from a private party, a used car dealer, or a franchised new car dealer, the rules to a successful purchase remain the same:
- Determine how much you can spend each month on car payments, insurance, and maintenance
- Do your research and find the best models within your price range that deliver the features you most desire
- Inspect and test drive the vehicle you’ve selected
- Car report
- Negotiate a good deal for yourself
- Insider information on where to purchase the best used cars
Now let’s get into the specifics of each rule:
1. How Much Car Can You Afford?
Financial experts suggest that your monthly car payment shouldn't be more than 20 per cent of your take-home pay. Be sure to include the monthly cost of insurance in your math, as well as an estimated cost of maintenance based on the services listed in the owner’s manual.
2. Select Your Target Vehicle(s)
While advice from friends and neighbours is nice, it’s best to double-check with online sources. You can evaluate the vehicles that you’ve identified as being both within your budget and of the style and type that you prefer and compare them for safety, reliability, and recalls to get a better picture of which car will be a better choice for you.
3. Inspect and Test-Drive the Vehicle
There are two separate functions in this process when seeking a Hyundai used car. First is to determine whether the vehicle itself is right for you. Are you able to quickly get in and out of the car? Is the driving position comfortable, is there good visibility, does it have the features you want? The second is to inspect for vehicles condition. No one expects you to climb under the car to evaluate the ball joints, but take it for a test drive to make sure that all systems are operating correctly. If this is a private party or used car dealer sale, you may want to consider paying for a thorough inspection. A New Car Dealer will often provide a complete inspection report, including all work done to recondition the car for sale, at no charge.
4. Check the History
You’d be well-advised to purchase a report on the car you’re most serious about from CarHistory. This could save you a considerable amount of trouble down the line if there’s anything improper about the vehicle. A new car dealer will often provide a CarHistory or similar report on its used vehicles free of charge.
5. Negotiate a Good Deal
No need to be nervous when you sit down to talk price on used car buying. Since you have already determined your budget and decided on a car, and if you are reasonable, chances are you can make a deal quickly.
6. How to Make a Great Deal on the Best Used Vehicle with the Least Hassle
We here at Phil Gilbert Hyundai have simplified the process so you get a used car that you can count on, handling financing and insurance in-house. We have one of Sydney's largest ranges of Hyundai Used Vehicles so check out our inventory here or contact us to see if there's something we can assist you with.