Are you thinking about starting the shopping process for a used car in Charlotte? Congrats! You’re on your way to being a proud new owner of a great vehicle. However, shopping for a used car doesn’t come without a little leg work. You need to do your research, inspect the vehicle, and definitely take a test drive. That’s where we come in – Toyota of N Charlotte wants to ensure you feel confident when you head out to buy your next ride. Check out our Charlotte used car shopping tips!
Follow these tips when shopping Charlotte used cars!
First step, research: Before you head out to a Charlotte used car dealership to start shopping, make sure you do your research! This includes making a list of the attributes you NEED in your car, as well as a secondary list of things you’d like to include in your new ride if possible. You should also think about things like:
- Make and model you prefer, as well as year
- Price and payments
- True cost to own
- Where you're going to shop – will you buy a Charlotte used car from a dealer, or from a private seller?
Answering all of these questions should help narrow your search quite a bit so you can start physically shopping!
Second step, inspection: This is your change to check the used car in Charlotte for damage or issues. Be on the lookout for:
- Rust, whether big or small
- Body panels that don't meet, or paint colors that don't quite match up
- Dents, dings, and scratches
- Weird smells in the interior, trunk or under the hood
- Parts that are worn out (hint – don't forget to check the tires!)
All of these things can indicate future repairs that can cost you a pretty penny, so be sure to conduct a thorough inspection of the Charlotte used car you’re shopping. If you’re serious about it, you may even consider taking the car to a mechanic for a closer inspection! You can also request a Carfax history report to take a closer look at the used car in question.
Toyota of N Charlotte can be your test drive co-pilot
Third step, test drive: Now’s your shot to see how the car handles and if it’s truly suited to you. During your test drive, take note of things like:
- How the car accelerates and brakes – don't be afraid to mash on the gas or brakes to test them (just be safe about it)
- How it handles in turns and when parking
- Any sounds you hear that sound out of the norm
- How well the car suits you in the cabin – can you reach everything you need? Are you comfortable in the driver's seat?
- That all gadgets work, including radio, air conditioning, turn signals, headlights, etc.
- How the car rides – is it nice and smooth, even at higher speeds?
Once you’ve conducted a satisfactory test drive, you’re ready to hit the road! Visit Toyota of N Charlotte for an amazing selection of deals and a great inventory including all makes and models. We’re ready to put you in the driver’s seat at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23!
WSOC
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