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3 Tips To Help You Shop For A Used Car

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Buying a used car comes with a lot of advantages. A used car is more affordable than a brand-new car, it will not depreciate as much, and you can stretch your dollar further to ensure that you have the features and amenities that you want. However, a quality used car is still a big financial investment, so it is essential to buy the right one. Being prepared and knowing how to shop for a used car can help ensure that you make a great purchase. Use the following tips to help you shop for a used car:

1. Know How Much You Can Afford to Spend

Prior to shopping for a used car, it is always a good idea to establish a budget and determine exactly how much you can afford to spend. Many people do not have the funds to pay for a used car in full with cash, and if you are in this type of situation, it is wise to contact your bank or credit union to apply for an auto loan in advance. After being approved for an auto loan, you will know what price point to look at and how much your monthly payments will be.

2. Visit a Local Dealership

One of the best ways to ensure that you're buying a quality used car is by shopping at a local used car dealership. Most used car dealerships have mechanics carefully inspect each vehicle that they have on their lot to ensure that they are in good condition. A sales associate at a used car dealership can also be a very valuable resource, and he or she can answer questions that you have and assist you in finding a car that meets your needs. Used car dealerships usually have large inventories, so you will have a number of used cars to choose from.

3. Take an Extended Test Drive

Most people purchase a used car with the intention of driving it for several years. Thus, it is important to purchase a car that handles well and is comfortable to drive. It can be very hard to assess a vehicle just by driving it around the block-- you are much better off taking the car for an extended test drive. Your best bet is to conduct a test drive that involves both surface streets and the highway so you can see how the car drives at different speeds and conditions. 

To learn more, contact a dealership like Bay Ridge Nissan today. 


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