How exactly do you go about pricing a new-to-you used car?

Nothing beats the feeling of driving away in a new car. Even if the vehicle is technically used, when new to you, it offers an entire world of new opportunities. But how should someone price a new to them used vehicle? After all, it is not like going directly to the car manufacturer's website and pricing a vehicle before heading out to the dealership. Buying a used car requires a bit more investigating, but it also lends itself to helping car buyers save a considerable amount of money. 

Tracking Down the Right Vehicle

When shopping for a used vehicle, it is important to take note of having an idea for what kind of vehicle make and model you want. Do your research through services like Consumer Report and other vehicle review websites in order to determine what vehicles run into the fewest problems. Some vehicles are constructed to last a very long time, while others are designed more to impress immediately, but don't necessarily have a very long shelf life. For someone on the market for a used truck, they should look up how used Fords, Chevys, Toyotas and others fair over an extended period of time. This way, it is less likely the person will need to spring for expensive repairs immediately upon buying the truck (or shortly after). 

Once someone starts looking at the vehicle style they are interested it, they need to write down all of the general specs of the vehicle when one interests them. This doesn't just include the make, model and year, but also trim variations and any added upgrades. They should look at the tires to see if these need to be replaced soon. Also, they should take note if the wheels are steel or aluminum. Steel wheels are far less valuable than the aluminum wheels. Once all of this information is obtained, they can plug it into a service such as Kelly Blue Book. KBB provides some of the most accurate pricing information on used vehicles. Here, the individual simply needs to plug in all of their findings, note any damages or upgrades and if they are buying from a dealer or independent seller. This way, they are able to come up with what the average vehicle is going for. 

Get the Car Fax

If the price is right and a potential buyer has found a lone vehicle they are interested in, it is time to check the Car Fax. To obtain this information, the VIN is required. The VIN can be found on several areas of the vehicle, ranging from the lower driver's corner of the windshield to the interior, driver's door panel or the glove box. The VIN records all work the vehicle has received, accidents and other possible problems. If the vehicle has seen a large number of drivers over a short period of time, it might reflect serious problems under the hood. It does cost money to obtain the Car Fax, but it is always a good decision before purchasing a vehicle as it gives the best idea at what it should cost.

Buying From a Dealer or Independent Seller

There are pros and cons with each. When buying from a dealer the vehicle is going to cost more, but usually comes with some sort of vehicle warranty. Typically there are fewer potential problems connected with the vehicle. On the other hand, an independent seller can offer a better price, but there is no warranty and there is always the problem of an expensive repair down the road. Always have the vehicle inspected when buying from independent sellers. 

If you are looking for a company that specializes in Automobile Extended Warranties, look no further than True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection. Coverage plans will protect your new, used and new-to-you used vehicle.