Buying a Used Car? Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes First

For some, buying jewels and fur coats is a fashion symbol; for others, buying a car is the real deal.

If you’re a car enthusiast but a bit tight on the budget, you’re more likely to hunt for a used car. When you do find one, make sure to ask yourself the following questions:

Have I checked it thoroughly?

Did I negotiate the right price?

Is it the best car to drive safely on the road?

Unfortunately, most people forget to cross-check several aspects when buying a used car. Not only does it lead to future troubles, but the feeling of regret is often unshakeable – unless you’ve purchased a used car from a certified car dealer in Ibiza.

Is Second Hand Car Worth Buying?

You might get confused if a second-hand car is worth the hassle. Here are some benefits to help clear your mind:

• Second-hand cars cost half the price a brand-new car does.
• Second-hand cars have low depreciation value.
• Second-hand car insurance is low-priced.
• Second-hand cars don’t have hidden charges.

As many advantages a pre-loved car has, you can only enjoy them by avoiding the mistakes mentioned below.

Let’s have a look.

What to Check When Buying a Used Car?

Not Researching Enough

They say there is no such thing as enough research.

And yet, you can't be more careful when it’s about giving away your hard-earned money for a car that’s previously been on the roads.

Thorough research includes:

• Searching up the make and model of cars that you like.
• Talking to mechanics who work on second-hand cars.
• Checking if spare auto parts are available in the market.

Asking friends and family for their suggestions.

Your research can help you make a ‘worth-buying’ list that comes in handy when negotiating a deal.

Not Fixing a Budget

Let’s face the elephant in the room: your sole purpose in buying a used car is to save money. So, not allocating a maximum budget can land you in deep trouble.

For example, you might choose a car you can’t afford or buy a car that doesn’t fall within your budget.

The result? You own a car but with low savings to work on the maintenance that comes after.

Not Taking a Test Drive

New car owners love taking a test drive. The exhilarating feeling it gives to get behind the wheels of a vehicle no one has to drive is overpowering. And yet, it’s forgotten when buying a second-hand car.

However, that’s one of the gravest mistakes.

Not taking a test drive results in improper functionalities that come later. In comparison, checking your car thoroughly ensures all parts, like the engine and brakes, are working correctly.

Not Negotiating the Price

While brand-new cars are often sold at sticker prices, the same is not valid for second-hand cars. So, the responsibility lies on your shoulders to negotiate the prices with the dealer.

Caution: some car dealers may tell you that their sticker price is the best offer in the market. But you must read the signs and understand that there will always be a dealership selling the same car at lower prices.

Common signs to detect if a seller is lying include:

• Being hasty to sell the car
• Not letting you take a test drive
• Telling it’s the best car you can get

Not Getting the Car Inspected

While you must prepare for car maintenance, asking an expert mechanic for a car inspection before closing the deal is equally important.

If you’re buying a used car from a dealership, there are high chances it’s already included in their package. But even if you have to pay for the inspection, the cost is worth the peace of mind you’ll get in return.

A car mechanic can inspect everything from the history, mileage, fuel capacity, wheel, tire alignment, and engine setup. They can also provide insight into whether the second-hand car is worth buying.

So, avoid these mistakes and have an unforgettable experience driving on Ibiza roads.

After all, better safe than sorry!