Thinking About Buying a Used Car

Buying a used vehicle can be a risky endeavor, but also a rewarding one. Buying used, even if the vehicle is close to new, will save you a lot of money compared to the price of a new vehicle off the lot. However, there are some inherent risks that come with purchasing a used vehicle; here is how to best avoid trouble.

When considering buying a new vehicle, you should definitely get a vehicle report first. A vehicle report will provide you with any major documented work or damage that is associated with the VIN number. Dealers are generally required to provide you with a vehicle report, but anyone can have one filed for a small fee. Next, check the title. If the title says “rebuilt” or “salvage,” the vehicle in question has at some point been totaled by an insurance company. Reasons for a rebuilt title can range from hail damage to a high-speed collision, so try and determine why a vehicle has a rebuilt title if you are attempting to buy such a vehicle. Rebuilt vehicles are cheaper than the same vehicle with a clean title but are also a greater risk.

If the paperwork checks out, you should have the vehicle inspected on a lift by a certified mechanic. Flagstaff Transmission Specialists in Flagstaff, AZ is more than happy to assist you...if you have a vehicle in question, we know exactly what to look for. Our mechanics will carefully inspect the underside of the vehicle for a bent frame/subframe, flood damage. leaks, etc. Often, damaged vehicles are repaired and resold with a clean title. Just because a vehicle has a clear history on paper does not mean it hasn’t seen its fair share of misfortune.

The only way to be sure of a vehicle’s condition is to put it on a lift, and have a mechanic thoroughly inspect it. If you have your eye on a used car but aren’t sure if buying it is a good idea, bring it by Flagstaff Transmission Specialists and let us give you a second opinion.

Thank you for visiting Flagstaff Transmission Specialists in Flagstaff, AZ. You can count on our automotive repair technicians and transmission specialist to keep your car, truck, suv, van, or entire fleet on the roads longer and safer.