What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Are you in the market for a quality pre-owned vehicle but are confused about what to look for when buying a used car? Don’t worry, most St Louis car shoppers have found themselves in the same situation. The good news is that you don’t have to go get your certification in auto mechanics in order to make a good decision about buying a used car. We want you to make an informed choice, so we’ve put together a list below of what to look for and what to ask when buying a used car.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car – Important Questions

Don’t be shy when you’re shopping for a used car. Get nosy. You want to know all you can about a car’s history before you buy it. We have a reputation in the St Peters area of being pretty transparent with our customers about the cars on our lot. Unfortunately, not all dealers and private sellers are eager to volunteer important information about the vehicles they are selling. So, here’s a list of questions to ask the seller: 

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car:

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Do the amenities and features work like they’re supposed to?
• What is the ownership history?
• Is the odometer reading the vehicle’s actual mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Do you have the title on hand?
• Is the car sold as is, or is it under warranty?

• What is the “out-the-door” price of the vehicle, including taxes and dealer’s fees? 

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

You’re welcome to have your mechanic look over any car on our lot before you buy it. In fact, you should be weary of any dealer that would not let you do that. However, there are lots of things you can check yourself that should give you a good idea of how reliable a car will likely be. Here is a list of things you should check when buying a used car:

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car:

• Dents and scratches on the exterior
• Signs of rust
• Cracks in glass
• How well the doors, windows, trunk, and hood open and close
• If the lights work
• Vehicle maintenance record
• Mileage history report
• If the car has a musty odor on the inside
• Condition of hoses and belts
• Engine fluids like oil and transmission fluid
• If there is black or greasy residue on the tailpipe
• How it performs in a test drive
• What consumer reviews say about this make and model

Come See the Quality Used Cars at Suntrup Volkswagen of St. Louis

We have a wide selection of quality used cars for sale on our lot. Come down and take one or more of them for a test drive. And, while you’re here, check out our other buying tips, like our posts on whether to buy or lease and how auto financing works. We’re just down the road from Webster, so drop by or contact us today.