Top Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car

Everybody has their own budget, and when it comes to shopping for a used car, knowing your budget is critical. Before you even start shopping for a used car, you should set a clear budget. This will be your guiding light through the rest of the car-buying process. A good rule of thumb for car shoppers is to keep the monthly payment at or below 20% of your net income. To set your budget, look at how much money you're currently spending on other bills and expenses and see how much you can afford for a monthly payment without straining your monthly income. Once you've figured out your budget, the financing team here at Rouen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help guide you toward the perfect car that falls within your budget. 

Choosing the right vehicle is as important as setting a budget. There's nothing worse than choosing a car only to find out it doesn't meet your wants and needs. If you're like most drivers, you'll probably be spending quite a bit of time behind the wheel, so it's important to have a vehicle that you enjoy being in and driving. The first thing to determine is size. While that two-door sports car can be enticing, it's not the most practical for a driver who frequently travels with family or additional cargo. If that's more your lifestyle, an SUV is a great option. You should also consider fuel efficiency while shopping, especially if you frequently drive long distances. Last but not least, you should consider the features you want. While it's easy for some drivers to say, 'I'm not picky,' you have the right to be picky! A car is a large investment and commitment; you deserve one you'll enjoy. For example, having three rows is excellent for a full or growing family. You should also consider the features you want, such as heated seats, smartphone integration, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and other specific features. Decide which ones are just wants and which ones are dealbreakers. Bringing this information to a sales professional here at Rouen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram will help us narrow down your options.

We mean this literally: use your sight, smell, touch, and hearing (probably not your taste, however) to get a feel for the car and ensure it's right for you. Doing this requires you to take a test drive. Before the test drive, however, take a walk around the vehicle, inspect it for any imperfections, and check the tires for tread depth. When you get into the car, before you start driving, you should test all the controls. If it has a push-button start, make sure you like the feeling of where the button is. You should also make sure the climate and entertainment controls are within easy reach. Once you begin driving, use your sight to check for any blind spots that could pose a safety risk. Pay attention to your ears and listen closely for any unusual noises. Also, use your hearing to ensure that the speakers work properly. Also, focus on how it feels to drive. Is it smooth, or are there vibrations while accelerating or braking? Get a feel for the sensitivity of the brake and gas pedals to ensure you like the way they feel. Finally, use your nose to ensure there's no mildewy, smokey, musty, or other foul smells. Doing these things will help ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable ride every time you get behind the wheel!

While buying a vehicle through private sale is an option, buying used from a reputable dealer like Rouen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram gives you confidence in the vehicle's condition, as all our pre-owned vehicles are reconditioned and serviced to meet quality standards and come with a vehicle history report to further your confidence. If you're interested in visiting us in search of a pre-owned vehicle, use the contact form below this page to reach out to our sales team. We also invite you to head over to our used inventory page to browse a wide selection of high-quality pre-owned vehicles ready for your choosing. We look forward to earning your business!