Used car sales around the country are far higher than those of new cars. If you’re looking for one, finding the right car can take some work. But we’re here to help you work out the right way to go about the used car buying process.

Budget

If you’re financing the used car, ensure that your monthly payment for the vehicle, including EMI, fuel, insurance, and maintenance, doesn’t cross 20% of your take-home pay.

Shortlist

List all your needs and find three cars within budget that meet them. Consider Certified Pre-Owned cars because they have long-term warranties from the manufacturer. Remember to check all reliable brands.

Research

Research prices of used cars in your area. Check used car lots, used sections of new car dealerships, and online used car retailers. CPO cars cost the most while private party cars are the cheapest.

Locate

Filter your search using factors like miles on the odometer, price, features, dealer’s distance, and more. Do all of this online to save time. There are many used car inventories available.

History

Order the vehicle history report of any car you’re seriously considering. This is essential as it can reveal vital information. You’ll learn whether the odometer was rolled back, if it has a salvage title, and more. Use the car’s VIN and the license plate number to get the report.

Contact

Once you find an interesting prospect, call the seller. It helps to establish a relationship and verify the information you have found. Ask details about the car’s mechanicals, why it’s being sold, and more. You may learn something that can make or break the sale. If it all seems okay, schedule a test-drive.

Test

Always test-drive the assess the car’s condition. Search online for a test-drive checklist and ensure you check out all the details mentioned. Notice details about how everything looks and feels.

Inspect

If the car passes your test, hire a professional mechanic to inspect it, and submit a written report.

Negotiate

If the car passed the mechanic’s inspection, use the details you’ve collected to negotiate a fair price.

Close

Finally, complete all paperwork, get the finances in order, and only once all essentials are complete, drive the car home.