With the price of new cars steadily increasing purchasing a used Nissan car is often an attractive alternative to many drivers. But do you know what to do when considering purchasing a used car? When purchasing a used car from a reputable dealership like Classic Nissan, you won’t run into problems, but it’s good to know what to look for. Here a few simple tips to help you avoid the lemons.
Understand Certified Pre-Owned Programs
A certified pre-owned program is a program offered by many dealerships where the used cars offered for sale have been through a special inspection program by the dealership. While these vehicles may come with a higher price tag, they also come with extended warranties that are guaranteed by the dealerships. Financing is often also available.
Inspect the vehicle
Before even taking the car for a test drive, take some time to check out the car while it is still in park. It will always be easier to check a cold engine than one that has been driving for 20 minutes. Visually inspect the body of the car for damage the way you would a rental car. New damage may appear between when you first see the car and when you pick up the car after purchasing it. Examine the tires for wear, as uneven wear could indicate problems with the alignment. Check the lights, turn signals, and hazards to ensure they are in working condition. Go through the motions of driving the car without actually leaving the parking lot.
Test Drive the Car
Before leaving the parking lot, get in and out of the car a few times to ensure it is comfortable. Try adjusting all mirrors and seats, steering wheels, A/C, and radio controls to ensure there are no problems. When you do get on the road, make sure you are trying both city and highway driving as some problems may only become apparent at certain speeds. Try the steering and brakes to get a feel for them, and try to find a bumpy surface that will allows you to test the suspension. Make sure you park the car as this will demonstrate any visibility problems or blind spots. Finally, after the test drive ask for permission to bring the car to your mechanic to double check for problems you may have missed.
