Got your eye on a pre-owned Hyundai? Smart choice! Hyundais are known for their reliability and great value, and that’s still true when you’re looking at used options. Any time you buy a used car, you’ve got to do a bit of homework, though. That will help you make sure the car you drive home is a gem and not a lemon.
1. Set a Budget First
Before you go out and start shopping for cars, it’s important to check your finances. It won’t do you any good to find a car you absolutely love if the payments are twice what you can manage. Don’t forget that owning a car also includes the cost of insurance and gas. If it’s out of warranty, you’ll also have to pay for any repairs it’ll need later if something goes wrong.
2. Check the Vehicle’s History
Once you’ve found a car you like at a reasonable price, you need to dig into its past. Vehicle history reports can tell you a lot, like if it’s been in any accidents, had multiple owners, or faced any recalls.
3. Give It a Visual Inspection
Even if you’re not a car expert, giving the Hyundai a thorough once-over can reveal a lot. Check the body for dents, damage, or signs of rust. Take an extra pass and check for any repairs that might not have been done well enough. These can be signs of accidents that were not reported. Don’t forget to check the interior, the engine, and the tires. This can help you catch any obvious problems like bald tires or a rusty engine block.
4. Take It for a Spin
Always, always, always test drive any used car you mean to purchase. It’s your chance to see how the car feels on the road. Pay attention to how it handles, listen for any odd noises, and check the brakes and steering. This is also a good time to make sure all the gadgets and gizmos like the AC radio and power windows are working properly.
5. Review Service Records
Ask the seller for the car’s service records. This lets you check how well the car has been maintained. It can also reveal whether it’s had any major work done. Regular oil changes and periodic tune-ups are good signs that the previous owner took care of the vehicle.
6. Check for Warranty Coverage
One of the perks of buying a used Hyundai is that the warranty may still be valid thanks to generous original coverage. Find out if the car is still under warranty, and what exactly is covered. This can be a big plus and offer some peace of mind with your purchase.
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to make a smart decision on your next car. Come down to Drive Direct in Columbus, OH, and have a look at our inventory!
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