If you’re shopping for a used vehicle in North Carolina, look no further than Smart Cars By Wieland. Serving Pittsboro, Sanford, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh, our dealership offers a comprehensive selection of pre-owned cars, SUVs, and trucks to cater to all kinds of drivers. We’re committed to upholding the highest quality standards and providing outstanding customer service, so you can count on us to meet and exceed your expectations. Whether you’re buying your first vehicle or replacing your existing one, you can use this helpful guide to ensure a smooth and satisfying used car buying experience.
Why Should You Buy a Used Vehicle?
Trying to decide between a new and used vehicle? Let’s look at a few reasons why you should consider going the used route.
- Lower price: A pre-owned vehicle costs considerably less than a similar new car. You can save thousands of dollars if you opt for a model that’s a few years old.
- Slower depreciation: Generally, a brand-new vehicle loses 30% to 40% of its value after the first year of ownership. A used car depreciates at a much slower rate, as it has already gone through its worst depreciation.
- More affordable insurance: The value of your vehicle is one of the main factors affecting your auto insurance premium. Since a used vehicle has a lower market value than a new one, it can save you money on insurance.
What To Look for When Buying a Used Car
While it can be a good investment, purchasing a used vehicle involves some risk. If you don’t do your due diligence, you can end up getting stuck with a lemon. Knowing what to look for when buying a used car can help you avoid making a bad decision. Follow these tips to shop wisely:
Run the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It’s essential to check a used vehicle’s history before buying it. You can do this by running its VIN through CARFAX, which will unlock a vehicle history report. The report tells you the car’s title status, previous owners, accident history, and more. Avoid purchasing a vehicle that has been in a major accident or a flood, as it may have some hidden problems despite having been repaired.
Research Used Vehicle Ratings
Researching the general history of the make and model you plan to buy can help you understand how it has fared over time. Websites such as Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports provide accurate information on many aspects of a used model, including its reliability and potential issues. This can give you an idea of what you should look for when inspecting or test-driving the car.
Check the Vehicle for Issues
After you’ve found a used vehicle that suits you, perform a hands-on visual inspection to see if it has any faulty or damaged components. Follow these tips to ensure a thorough inspection:
- Inspect the vehicle’s body for imperfections such as dents, discolored paint, and gaps. These can be signs of reconstruction following an accident.
- Check the tires for uneven wear and damage, windows for cracks and chips, and tailpipe for black grease.
- Make sure all the doors are working properly and show no signs of heavy use.
- Get under the car and check the underbody and wheel wells for rust, which can lead to future problems.
- Look under the hood for signs of excessive wear and leaks. Check the engine oil to make sure it isn’t murky, inspect the transmission fluid level, make sure the rubber hoses and belts aren’t overly stiff or cracking, and look for signs of fluid leaks on the engine block.
Take the Vehicle for a Test-Drive
It’s important to take a used vehicle for a test-drive, as it allows you to see how it performs in real-world conditions and identify any potential issues it may have. Below are a few things you should do during the test drive:
- Look for water damage: If you notice a musty smell in the cabin, it may be an indication that the vehicle has leaky windows or flood damage.
- Test the electronics: Make sure the dashboard lights come on when you start the car, the exterior lights are all working, and the windows go up and down smoothly and leave no gaps.
- Listen for unusual sounds: If you hear odd sounds coming from the engine, transmission, or brakes, you should get a trusted mechanic to inspect the vehicle. A rough-shifting transmission is also a red flag.
Why Buy a Used Car From Smart Cars By Wieland
Smart Cars By Wieland is the go-to place for North Carolina drivers seeking reliable used vehicles. At our dealership, you’ll find a wide variety of pre-owned vehicles from many major auto manufacturers. Whether you’re looking for an easy-to-drive sedan, family-oriented SUV, capable pickup truck, or a well-appointed luxury vehicle, we’ve got you covered. Also, we subject all our used vehicles to a rigorous inspection process to ensure they’re problem-free and have plenty of life left in them.
Besides top-quality pre-owned vehicles, Smart Cars by Wieland also offers fantastic prices and promotions to help you get a great deal on your desired car. If you’re shopping on a tight budget, choose something from our awesome selection of vehicles under $20k to get the best value for your money. Need financing to purchase your next car? Our friendly and knowledgeable finance specialists can help you explore your options and find an auto loan that fits your budget and lifestyle. Get started now by filling out our online finance pre-approval form.
Get Behind the Wheel of Your Dream Ride Today
Smart Cars by Wieland is dedicated to providing you with a seamless and hassle-free car-shopping experience. Our dealership has a devoted team of auto experts who will guide you through every step of the car-buying process, from taking a test-drive to applying for financing. So, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Additionally, we have a fully equipped service center that can help you keep your pride and joy running smoothly for years to come. Contact us today to schedule a visit.
Chevrolet Silverado LT V8 Trail Boss Z71 2019 by RL GNZLZ is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0
