Millions of used cars are bought and sold each year, but choosing the right one can be difficult. With so many options and dealers, it’s important to take the time to do your research and be thorough in learning the history of your car before taking it home. But with taking the right steps, you can find spectacular deals and great cars.

Step 1: How to Make a Used Car Budget

The first step in making any significant purchase is outlining a realistic budget and sticking to it. If you're taking out a loan to pay for your car, your car payment shouldn't be more than 20 percent of your take-home pay. If you're sticking to a tight budget, you may want to spend even less. When you’re shopping for a used car you have to anticipate that there may be some extra costs along the way like new tires, maintenance, and insurance.

Step 2: Build a List of Potential Cars

Buyers will often get a specific car they want stuck in their head. You may decide you want a used Mustang in NJ, but it’s best to be open to multiple brands and research how they last over time. Historically, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have proved to be excellent used cars, however, because of their reputation they may cost more than similar vehicles like the Kia Optima.

Step 3: How to Choose a Used Car Dealer

Prices are determined by the area you live in. Check the dealerships in your area compared to other counties or states to find the best prices. Privately owned dealers will usually have the lowest priced options.

Check websites for used cars in your area. If you’re looking for a used Lexus RX for sale in NJ you can filter your search by many factors, including the mileage, price, and the dealer's distance from you.

Step 4: How to Check a Vehicle’s History

Once you’ve found a car you like, it’s important to check the vehicle’s history. Knowing if the car’s been in an accident can help you avoid future problems and save you thousands by avoiding a lemon.

AutoCheck and Carfax are the two best-known sources for vehicle history reports. These reports can reveal vital information about the car, including whether the odometer has been rolled back or if it has a salvage title (meaning it’s been declared a total loss by the insurance company).

Step 5: What to Look for When Test Driving a Used Car

This is an easy step to overlook. When you’re test driving a used car you need to be especially observant. Here are a couple of things to look out for:

  1. Is the driving position comfortable? Do you sit too low, too high, or just right in the car?
  2. Can you tilt or telescope the steering wheel for a better fit?
  3. How is the visibility? Check the rearview mirror and the side mirrors. Look for potential blind spots.
  4. Use your nose. Do you smell gas, burning oil, or anything amiss?
  5. Check out the tires. How old are they? Is there enough tread left?
  6. How are the brakes? How responsive are they? Do they squeak?
  7. Pop the hood. You don't have to know a lot about cars to see if something looks wrong. If something is leaking, steaming, or covered in oil, it's time to ask questions.
  8. Does the air-conditioning work? Do the headlights, brake lights, and turn indicators work? Test them to be sure.

Whether you’re shopping for a used car or looking to sell your own, Royal Motors has the experience and knowledge you need to make the car buying process smooth. Their friendly team accepts all trade-ins, regardless of condition, and can accommodate most credit needs. Call our team at (856) 346-2121 or stop by our location in Voorhees, NJ today!