Before visiting a dealership, do your research on cars. Carfax can tell you if a used vehicle has any previous crash, fire, or flood damage and allows for searching the car’s history to get reliable information regarding safety and reliability. Here are some tips for getting the best price and avoiding lemons:
Step 1: Search Used Car Communities
The Internet is an excellent source for used cars in sacramento communities. Here, you’ll find forums and message boards where members discuss models from various dealerships. Be sure to take time out to explore these online forums before visiting a dealership in person.
Step 2: Request a Quote
Ask the dealership for an itemized written quote for the cost of one car, plus any applicable fees. They may require that you book an appointment first in order to provide more specific pricing information.
Step 3: Conduct Your Own Inspection of the Car
You may be advised not to look at the car before it has been fully inspected by the dealer, which can be beneficial if you want peace of mind from what the dealership can provide. But if you really want to assess its condition yourself, inspecting it yourself is your best bet.
Step 4: Acquire an Inspection Sticker
In some states, laws require the use of inspection stickers on used cars. This helps reduce issues with safety recalls and damage to the car. Make sure to use this sticker when filling out registration information at the dealership, along with any other conditions included in your loan contract.
Step 5: Get the Documentation and Car History Report
Ask the dealership for all necessary paperwork and a car history report. Carefully go through this printout; it contains details about previous owners (who may have had mechanics look at it), service records/recalls if any, accidents/issues with the car, odometer readings for each change of ownership, as well as photos of your new vehicle if available.
Step 6: Sign the Contract
When buying a car from an established dealership, they will ask for you to sign a contract that grants them rights to sell your car. Make sure to read and comprehend this contract before agreeing to buy any automobile.
Step 7: Pay in Full
When all paperwork is completed and approved, bring either cash or a check to the dealership and turn over payment in full. Don’t take chances on your new car by paying in installments.
Step 8: Monitor Your Insurance
Your car insurance may change after you purchase a new vehicle. Make sure the dealership is informed of any modifications to your policy, such as adding or removing drivers.
Step 9: Conduct a Final Inspection on Your New Car
Once you take delivery of your new vehicle, it is wise to have someone knowledgeable about cars inspect it for a final checkup.
