3 minute read
Tips for Buying a Good Used Vehicle
by Expert Contributor Lou Matteo, Owner of Edgemont Automotive
Have you ever needed an inexpensive used vehicle for a new driver in your family? With so many to choose from, how can you be sure you’ll buy something reliable and safe? How can you avoid buying a known “lemon” or paying too much? Here’s some tips to help you make a well-informed buying decision.
Know how much you’re willing to spend
Budget is usually the #1 variable for most people when choosing the right vehicle, used or new. There are good cars out there for every budget. Pick out a few vehicles you like that are within your budget, then talk to your trusted automotive professional, who should gladly review your list and weed out the vehicles that are expensive to maintain or just problematic.
Request a pre-purchase inspection
Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private party, any vehicle you want to buy should have a pre-purchase inspection. If a seller refuses to let you take the vehicle to your auto technician, then cross that one off your list. Set an appointment with your auto repair facility, to have them check out your short list. The information you receive about the vehicle(s) could be priceless. A reasonable inspection for leaks, loose or worn components, and rust can help you avoid immediate repair costs. Most late-model vehicles can store fault codes and not turn on any warning lights. If applicable, have your auto technician perform a computer scan for trouble codes. That could save you hundreds or even thousands in repairs on high-tech features and accessories.
Use a reputable local ASE-certified repair shop to inspect the vehicle(s) you’re considering buying.
If the shop is in Pennsylvania, have the ASE-certified repair shop perform an official inspection. Relying on such professional expertise can steer you away from auto headaches and toward a reliable vehicle.
Don’t assume that the most expensive new cars always are the best used cars.
Just the opposite is often true! Do some online research about the safety featJures, accessories and reliability of your potential used car choices. Get a report for each vehicle’s accident damage and maintenance history. If the previous owner cared enough to maintain the vehicle to protect their investment, chances are it’s a good investment or you.
Bottom Line
Spending some time and even a little money to find a safe, quality used car for your loved ones to drive will give you some priceless peace of mind. Drive safely!
Trusted Experts in Auto Repair
Complete Vehicle Repair • Domestic, Imports, Trailers • FREE Pickup, Delivery and Drop off • PA Safety Inspection & Emission Testing • Tires, Brakes, Engine Diagnostics, Scheduled Maintenance, Heating & AC, Electrical Systems, Suspension, Body Control Systems
Lou Matteo, Owner of Edgemont Automotive
Lou is available for conversation by phone or on site at his auto service center in the Camino Commons center, next to the Edgemont Post Office on West Chester Pike near the intersection of Rte 3 and Providence Rd. Readers are invited to contact Lou Matteo with an automotive question or a suggestion for a future automotive feature article.
610-353-9868
5040 West Chester Pike, Edgemont (Camino Commons Shopping Center, adjacent to the Edgemont Post Office)
www.EdgemontAutomotive.com
