New cars can cost a lot. If cost-savings is a priority for you, then shopping for used cars in Tulsa is smart and practical. Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t end up going home with a lemon.
Ask for the car’s service record
These reports show if the car’s been involved in any major accidents or have undergone significant repairs. A vehicle that’s been in a car collision may not be the best option to go for so move on to other options in the inventory. If the dealer can’t provide this information, you may not be getting the bigger picture.Shop for used cars in Tulsa elsewhere.
Buy from a dealer
Getting your car from a dealer offers you protection. Do your homework and look for a reputable and trustworthy dealer in your area. That’s a good place to start shopping for a pre-owned auto. With dealers, you get the buying protection you need, MoneySense says.
Inspect it
Do a visual inspection of the car. Do you see signs of damage? Is the paint job recent? That could be a possible red flag. It could conceal signs of structural rust which means the unit is a dead loss. Be on the lookout for any signs of damage or repairs.
Take it out for a ride
Don’t forget to test drive the car. More than getting a feel for how the car handles the road, a test drive helps you find out whether the car is in tip-top condition or not. Also, getting behind the wheel of a car makes it easier for you to determine if the make and model is a good match for you. For instance, does it have enough leg and elbow room? If you aren’t comfortable at all, then you still have time to check out other options.