What to Look Out for When Buying Used

So you're about to go car shopping. It certainly is exciting, but it can also feel like there are so many unknowns, right? We promise you'll feel better after reading these tips! Here's what to look out for when buying used.

First and foremost, you can rest assured that with Go Auto Outlet, we put all our vehicles through comprehensive pre-sale inspections. You don't have to worry about safety or reliability when you buy with us, but if you're buying from another dealer or a private seller, make sure to ask about possible defects or damage the vehicle might have had.

Regardless of where you decide to shop, the Salesperson's job is to ask the right questions to gauge what's important to you, and then offer recommendations accordingly. Of course, you can help us help you, too! A vehicle has many components and amenities and trim levels, so if you've got some particular things in mind (like heated side mirrors for these Canadian winters of ours), then bringing these things up with us can give us that much better an idea of what you're looking for. And as for the rest of the shopping experience...

Upon First Impression...

We encourage you to trust your first impressions when you check out and step inside the car. Keep a close eye out for any significant scuffs or chips on the paint, or any signs of wear and tear on the seating. Take your time to explore the the vehicle, inside and out! If it has a lot of technology features, test them out to ensure the air conditioning blows cold, the heated seats do their job, and the navigation system actually navigates.

Ask about any rust you happen upon. If you spot any rusty buildup along the door frames, wheel wells or bumpers, these can affect the vehicle's resale value, and should be factored into sticker pricing. If you're looking for a car under 5K, a little oxidized iron might just be part of the deal.

Before You Test Drive

Don't hesitate for a second about the test drive. This is by far the most important step in determining whether a used vehicle is worth it, and you'll notice the most important things if anything significant is wrong.

Upon ignition, pay special attention to the startup. Any rattling or squealing occurring? Also, turn the wheel left and right, listening for any clunks from the suspension. And pay attention to the dashboard; it will tell you whether there are any issues at all with the engine's temperature, performance and other things. Be sure to mention any concerns you have to your Salesperson, and consider an extended warranty for some added reassurance.

Now you're ready to take the car out on the road.

Hit the Road

It's important that the car accelerates and brakes smoothly, so feel for any unusual vibrations. And consciously listen as you drive for any noises like brake squealing. Trust your senses!

Try to think about the kind of driving you'd be doing daily with this vehicle, and test the car out on a variety of roads you typically frequent, from speed-bumped parking lots to multi-lane highways. This will give you a solid idea of how well the car will behave during your daily routine and weekend road trips.

Check for a Vehicle History Report

If you have any further doubt at this point, ask whether there's a CarProof report or any servicing receipts the seller has. These will give you a great idea as to what kinds of issues and servicing the vehicle has been through. Has it been in any accidents and incurred any damage that's not so easy to notice at first glance?

The vehicle history report tells you all this and much more. CarProof is the number one Canadian provider of these investigations, and many of Go Auto Outlet's used vehicles come with a free report.

Loose Items, Loose Ends

So you've made it this far. Before you make any big decisions, you'll want to make sure all of the right pieces are in the box. Does the car come with a remote starter that functions properly? Are the tire jack and spare tire in the vehicle? And do you have all of the paperwork you might need from the dealer?

Some items like the owner's manual might be available only online, and accessible via your phone.

Shop with go Auto outlet

Of course, this list wouldn't be complete without this tip. Shopping with Go Auto Outlet means buying quality, and we're sure you'll be convinced of that when you come in for that test drive. Book one today with us or take a look in our Used inventory, stock full of vehicles we're sure you'll be happy with! You're also more than welcome to come over for a visit at one of our Edmonton, Leduc or Red Deer locations. We hope we've helped you figure out what to look out for when buying used vehicles!