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What to Consider When Buying a Used Car in Ventura

Dec 26, 2019

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What to Consider When Buying a Used Car in Ventura

Take these steps when purchasing a used car.

If you are on a budget, then buying a used car is a great option for you.  However, buying a used car can be risky because you cannot count on the car being reliable and damage-free.  To ensure that you aren't making a bad investment, take these steps when purchasing a used car.
  • Get the Car's History
If you've found a used car that you really like, make sure you look up its history before taking the next step.  Usually, used car lots offer prospective buyers a Carfax report that details any accidents the car has been in or any repairs that have been made.  If you are trying to buy a used car online, then sites like Cars.com and AutoTrader.com usually offer access to a free Carfax.  If you are buying from an independent seller, then ask the owner to provide the report to ensure that they aren't trying to conceal past accidents.
  • Look at the Most Reliable Brands
Another way to ensure that the car you choose is a reliable one is by sticking to car brands that have a good reputation for reliability and longevity.  Even if a car already has miles on it, the brands with the highest reliability ratings will continue to operate efficiently even as the car switches hands.  Please keep in mind that some car brands are better at manufacturing certain makes and models.  So, just because a company makes an extremely reliable sedan doesn't necessarily mean that it makes good pickup trucks.  Make sure you conduct research before heading over to the used car lot, so you know which brands you are interested in.
  • Always Take a Test Drive
Before buying a used car, it's essential to take a test drive.  During your test drive, you should see how the car handles on residential streets as well as the highway.  You should also check to see how the car handles sudden braking and driving maneuvers.  If you notice that the car is shaky, hard to maneuver, or uncomfortable to drive, then this isn't the vehicle for you. Take these steps when purchasing a used car.  Once you find the perfect car, make sure that you protect it with the right auto insurance.  For assistance with all your car coverage, contact the experts at John E. Peakes Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to assist you with all your insurance needs today.