SUVs are versatile, practical, and tend to be safer than other car types. But they can be expensive. One way to get around the high price is to buy a used SUV. To make sure you don’t waste your hard-earned money, here are six things you should watch out for.
Undeclared flood damage: Flood damage is difficult to see with the naked eye. The problems it causes only show up later. Flood damage also doesn’t always show up on vehicle history reports. And considering the terrible weather we’ve been experiencing, it is definitely a good idea to get the SUV inspected by an unbiased professional mechanic.
Odometer fraud: There are people that turn back the odometer before they sell their car. It’s illegal, but it happens more often than you think. This way, they can get a better price for it. That’s why you should always check the vehicle history report. Also, if the SUV looks like it’s aging, or over ten years old, and has suspiciously low mileage, it may be best to move on.
Maintenance: Buying a used SUV can save you a lot of money. But, you need to be able to afford to keep it running. Older SUVs usually have more problems. They also consume more fuel. Check how much its parts cost before you decide.
Size: Low prices can tempt you into buying a full-size SUV that is capable and has space for everything. But, consider whether you really need it. A compact or midsize SUV may be perfect if you’ve got a small family. Save your money to clear any debt.
Safety features: The SUV you’re checking out may have a long list of safety features. But you need to ensure that all of them work. Check everything from basics like seatbelts and airbags to child locks and car seat attachments. Check all tech as well.
Unnecessary features: Narrow down your choices by researching the features you need and choosing an SUV accordingly. Dealers will try to push you towards expensive cars and extras like satellite navigation and cruise control for an extra cost. These do sound appealing but are mostly useless. Don’t buy what you don’t need.
