10 Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car
When you’re eager to hit those Nacogdoches and Lufkin, TX, roads with a vehicle of your choice, research is key. You want to ensure that you choose a model that works well with your needs.
The Tipton Ford team put together this list of 10 questions to ask when buying a used car to make sure you feel confident as you start shopping around for a used car. So, when you get ready to find your next ride, keep these questions in mind.
1. What is the car’s service and maintenance history?
Many vehicles have a service or maintenance record to show you how well-taken care of it’s been throughout its lifespan. This can give you some insight into how well it might run and how often you may need to have it serviced. It can also help you learn a little bit about its accident history, if any.
2. Has it been in any accidents?
Gaining some insight into a vehicle’s accident history—if any—can help you to know if there might be any problems later down the road. You’ll want to find out if the damage was correctly repaired and consider getting that area inspected by a mechanic to be sure.
3. How many owners has it had?
The ideal vehicle typically will have had only one or two owners before you find it. A vehicle that has passed through several owners might have some other issues under the surface.
4. What kind of condition is the vehicle in?
You’ll of course check over the vehicle’s interior and exterior, but it’s wise to ask and see what the answer is. You might be pointed toward issues you may have missed on your own or you’ll be assured that the vehicle is in excellent condition!
5. How many miles are on the car?
Mileage is important to consider when shopping for a used car. Vehicles that have a lot of miles may have excessive wear internally. However, vehicles with unusually low mileage could also have issues, due to lack of use.
6. Do you have the vehicle history report?
Many of the answers to the above questions will be outlined in the car’s vehicle history report. While this isn’t always available with every used car at a dealership, it’s typically available with many of them. So, ask if the dealer has it on hand!
7. Does the vehicle still have the jack and spare tire?
These are essential pieces for you to have if you own a used car. So, make sure to find out if these are still included with the vehicle.
8. Does the car have any recalls?
A vehicle may be recalled for any number of reasons. If there is a recall on the model you’re looking at, you’ll want to find out why and whether the problem has since been taken care of.
9. Are there any special features?
Every vehicle has something unique to offer, so ask the team member to point you toward any of the special features included in the vehicle. This is particularly important if you’re looking for certain features with your used vehicle.
10. Is the vehicle still under warranty?
When looking at a more recent used vehicle, there’s a chance that it’s still covered under the warranty. If you look at a certified pre-owned model, it may come with its own warranty for added confidence.
Looking to Buy a Used Car?
There are many other questions to ask when shopping for a used car, but this is a great place to start. As you shop for a used car at Tipton Ford, know that our team members are here to help!
| Monday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:30AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |