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Going with a pre-owned vehicle is a fantastic way to save money and get a great vehicle with a solid number of miles left in it. However, a lot of people worry about the risks of buying pre-owned, since it can be hard to gauge the number of flaws present in the vehicle. Here are some things to look for when buying a used vehicle to give you more confidence that you’re making the right purchase.
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Look at Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle
Certified pre-owned vehicles give you an extra level of assurance that the vehicle is in good condition. For the most part, a certified pre-owned car is no more than 6 years old with less than 100,000 miles. The dealer must put the car through a rigorous inspection to get the label, so there’s a higher level of confidence.
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Do a Full Walk Around
Do a full, careful walk-around of the vehicle to see if there is any rust breeding or dents. Rust is a huge warning sign, because if it’s growing on the body it may be growing on the inside. Check out the paint job too, keeping an eye out for flaking or scratches.
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Give the Tires Attention
The tires of the vehicle should be worn evenly and match. The surface should be clear of feathering, which indicate a poor alignment. These issues may be minor or more serious, so look closely.
Pay Attention to Your Test Drive
Test drives can tell you a lot about a vehicle. Pay attention to the feel, and the way the car responds and rides. How does the engine sound? Are there any odd noises or shaking? How do the brakes work? A test drive can reveal any issues.
Do your Research
Don’t stop at looking up the make and model reviews. Check out the service records and inspection report. Look out for past accidents or major issues. The more you know about the vehicle the more confident you will feel.
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