Congratulations! You've decided to upgrade your Sanford and Deltona, Florida, travels, by driving a new-to-you car. There are lots of benefits of purchasing a used car, such as variety and potentially lower monthly payments**. Though, before you sign the paperwork on the vehicle, there are some questions you'll want to ask when buying a used car.
The team at Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) of Seminole County are here to help our friends around Orlando and Altamonte Springs with this comprehensive and easy-to-digest guide. Let's get started!
What Questions Should I Ask When Buying a Used Car?
There are lots of questions you should ask when you buy a new car. Let's take a look at some of the must-ask questions when you're buying a used one:
| Question to Ask When Buying a Used Car | Why You Should Ask |
| What is the ownership history? | Asking this will let you know how many drivers previously owned the car. |
| Are service records available? | Reviewing a CARFAX Vehicle History Reportâ„¢ or similar service report will let you know what maintenance was performed and when, its accident history, and more. |
| Is there a warranty open on the vehicle? | Depending on the vehicle's age, it may still be covered under warranty. Asking this will help you know how long it's under warranty, and what the warranty covers.* |
| Can I take it for a test drive? | Getting a feel for how the car drives is a must before you finalize a purchase. |
| Can I trade in my car when I buy? | Wondering what you can do with your current car? Ask about trade-in options. |
What Is the Ownership History?
It's always a good idea to ask about ownership history when purchasing a used car. Asking this question can paint an image about how the vehicle was used. Some key takeaways from asking this question should include:
- How many people previously owned and operated the vehicle
- What the vehicle was mainly used for (i.e., light travel vs. work vehicle)
- When the car was purchased
- How many years each owner drove the vehicle
When you ask this question when you buy a used car, you're one step closer to seeing a clear image of the vehicle's history.
Are Service Records Available?
To fully paint a picture of the life of your used car before today, it's recommended you ask if service records are available. A CARFAX Vehicle History Reportâ„¢, or similar service record will provide insight into things like:
- What services were performed, and when
- How well the previous owner(s) stayed on top of routine maintenance
- Accident history, if applicable
- Vehicle Highlightsâ„¢, which overview basic specs
When you ask this question, it's a fast and easy way to catch up on potentially years of driving history.
Is There a Warranty Open on the Vehicle?*
Many vehicles come with a standard warranty. This warranty typically covers things like:
- Powertrain
- Corrosion
- Safety restraints
- Vehicle parts
When you ask this question when buying a used car, you'll quickly learn if the vehicle is still under warranty and, if it is, what is covered.
If the used car is no longer under warranty, ask our team about available coverage plans.* With our help, you can receive appearance protection, extended vehicle warranty, and much more.*
Can I Take It For a Test Drive?
You will always want to ask to take a vehicle for a test drive before you finalize the purchase. This will confirm the vehicle is your perfect match. Some things you should consider when test driving a vehicle include:
- Getting the seat and steering wheel in the right position
- Checking the vehicle's blind spots
- Monitoring acceleration time on both city and highway roads
- Practicing parallel and perpendicular parking
A test drive will give you a glimpse into how your normal commute will feel before the purchase.
Can I Trade In My Car When I Buy?
Unless you have other plans for your current vehicle, chances are you'll want to trade it in when you buy. At our dealership, we make this easy. Start with our online Kelley Blue Book® Trade-In Value tool to get an accurate estimate for your vehicle in seconds.
Buy a Used Car Today
Now that you know what questions to ask when buying a used car, the next step is to visit our showroom. Explore our models to find the one that'll best enhance your Sanford, Deltona, Orlando, and Altamonte Springs, Florida, travels.
Contact us at CDJR of Seminole County to schedule a test drive today!
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*See dealer for limited warranty details.Â
**Any negative equity will be added to a lease or purchase.
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