When it comes to buying a car, whether your purchase new or used is really a personal choice. A used car can be a very cost-effective option if you want to get more bang for your buck. You can always get a better-appointed car for the same price if you buy used, but make sure you do your due diligence before you purchase.

Used cars are a great money saver, but you can end up with a lemon if you don’t take everything into consideration upfront. Below are our top 5 tips to consider before buying a used car.

1. Features

When you buy a second-hand car you can get caught up in all the aftermarket modifications, but you’ll want to make sure it has all the basics you actually need. Remember that the look of the car can be changed once you buy it so just because the previous owner made it look good, doesn’t mean it’s a good buy for you. Set your budget and consider the specifications that you need in a used car.

2. Warranty

Second-hand cars from a dealer will still come with a warranty giving you peace of mind that you have at least a few months of driving to see if there is anything that needs fixing. If the car is new enough you will also be able to get an extended warranty to go with it. Buying any used car with no warranty is risky as there are certain things you won’t notice in your initial test drive.

Always ask what the warranty covers. There are many types and some only cover the main components like the engine, but won’t necessarily cover the electric power windows and radio which are not too expensive if something goes wrong.

3. Dealer v/s. Private Seller

Buying second-hand cars can be done through either a private seller or an authorized car dealer. There are distinct ups and downs to both transactions.

Buying a second-hand car from a private seller will usually be a little cheaper, but you’ll have no warranty and no chance to take it back and complain if you don’t see an issue before you purchase. Finance can also be a problem as you’ll need to do that through the bank and transfer the money before you pick it up.

Buying a second-hand car from a certified dealer can be a little more expensive upfront, but you can do everything there including your finance and you will also have a warranty backing your decision. They will also have more than one used car for sale so you may get there to look at one and find something that better suits you. You can consider the benefits of buying a used car from a dealer in Sydney before making any decision.

4. Mechanical inspections

Unless you’re a mechanic you’ll want one to look at the car. If it’s at a dealer then it will come with this paperwork so make sure you ask for it. If it’s through a private person you’ll need to arrange your own inspection and make sure there is nothing mechanically wrong with it. This step is not worth skipping as there could be underlying issues that even the owner hasn’t noticed yet.

5. Budget

We all have one so make sure you stick to it. Don’t blow the budget because one car looks better with bigger wheels, these are things you can add later once you have the money. Looks for the most mechanically sound, reliable version of the car you’re after and do the rest later on.

Here at City Ford Rockdale, you can check out a wide range of the used cars for sale in Sydney. Let us help you to find the perfect second hand car at the best price.