Buying a used car can be a risky endeavor, but also a rewarding one. Buying used, even if the car is close to new, will save you a lot of money compared to the price of a new car off the lot. However, there are some inherent risks that come with purchasing a used car; here is how to best avoid trouble.
Firstly, get a vehicle report. A vehicle report will provide you with any major documented work or damage that is associated with the VIN number. Dealers are generally required to provide you with a vehicle report, but anyone can have one filed for a small fee. Next, check the title. If the title says “rebuilt” or “salvage,” the vehicle in question has at some point been totalled by an insurance company. Reasons for a rebuilt title can range from hail damage to high speed collision, so try and determine why a vehicle has a rebuilt title if you are attempting to buy such a car. Rebuilt cars are cheaper than the same car with a clean title, but are also a greater risk.
If the paperwork checks out, you should have the vehicle inspected on a lift by a certified mechanic. Sargeant Service Center in St Augustine is more than happy to assist you...if you have a car in question, we know exactly what to look for. Our mechanics will carefully inspect the underside of the car for a bent frame/subframe, flood damage. leaks, etc. Often, damaged vehicles are repaired and resold with a clean title. Just because a car has a clear history on paper does not mean it hasn’t seen its fair share of misfortune.
The only way to be sure of a vehicle’s condition is to put it on a lift, and have a mechanic thoroughly inspect it. If you have your eye on a used car but aren’t sure if buying it is a good idea, bring it by Sargeant Service Center and let us give you a second opinion.
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Thank you for visiting Sargeant Service Center in St. Augustine, FL. Count on our automotive repair technicians to keep your car, truck, suv, or van on the roads longer and safer.
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