Buying a used car?Be on the look out

If you buy a used car it can save you a lot of time and hassle, as well as tons of money. If you're looking to buy a car, don't overlook used cars during your search. Even cars that are only a couple years old will be much more affordable than brand new cars. And buying a used car doesn't have to be risky investment. If you follow these helpful tips, you can save yourself money when buying a car and still get a great vehicle in the process.

Often, people go into car buying knowing exactly the type of car they want. They narrow their search to only this pre-determined type of car. But if you're looking to get a used car, you may want to expand your horizons. Many types of cars may still fit your budget and needs, even if they are not the exact style of car you were originally hoping to buy. Go into your used car search with an open mind and you're sure to find a vehicle that's right for you.

When you buy a used car, you should plan on a healthy amount of research. Because the car has been in use for some period of time, you as the buyer need to know exactly what kind of use it was put to. You should find out the mileage on the car and what kind of condition it is in. Has it been in any major accidents? Has it needed any significant repairs? Companies like AutoCheck and Carfax can run vehicle history reports that delve into the history of the car and what it has been through. Getting a report like this is vital before making a decision on a used car.

Though likely cheaper than a new car, price is still a factor when purchasing a used car. You should know before buying how much you have available to spend. Understand how much money you can put down and how much you can afford to pay each month. Determining a price range before looking for a car can help narrow the field and quicken the process.

Also make sure you have financing for the car. Even with a used car, you may need to get a loan from a bank or dealership in order to make the purchase. If so, try to get your loan from a bank rather than a dealership and before you make a decision. Of course, with used cars it is sometimes also possible to pay in cash up front, depending on the price of the vehicle.

Test driving is vital when deciding on a used car. A dealership or private owner may claim the car is in perfect condition, but you should still test drive it for yourself to ensure that that is true. Things like hill-climbing power, acceleration, engine noise and braking are things you'll need to assess for yourself and by driving the car first hand. Test driving will also give you a feel for the car in general, and may let you know if it is right for you or not.

A used car is a great option for those who might not have the money for a brand new car. And it's just as possible to fall in love with a used car as with a new one. Who knows? The car of your dreams could have been the car of someone else's dreams as well.