How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Buying Used Cars in Calgary
How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Buying Used Cars in Calgary
Posted on August 28, 2024
Buying used vehicles in Calgary can be a great way to save money. Purchasing Ford used cars in Calgary from various makes and models offers a lower price tag and often reduced insurance costs. Many used cars are almost brand new with low mileage, plenty of options, and certified by a dealer. Find the car that suits your style.
What to Avoid When Buying Used Cars in Calgary
Like with anything, you need to watch out for pitfalls that come with making a purchase. Here is a checklist to help keep you on track and avoid some common mistakes.
- Budget – The number one thing you need to do before buying a car or truck is to set a budget. Determine how much you are willing to spend so you are comfortable with the cost or finance payments. Avoid overspending on items you don’t really need or want. Often you can get a great deal and stay under budget for your new purchase. Buying below budget gives you the freedom to spend on extras like new running boards, or perhaps an extra set of tires for winter driving.
- History – Knowing the history of used vehicles in Calgary is important. You don’t want to have problems on the road due to overlooking past damage from an accident. Checking the VIN is one way to investigate the vehicle’s track record. A Carfax report is also a great reference document that details where the vehicle has been, any liens, and if major repairs have been completed. This doesn’t mean the vehicle is unsafe for driving, but it could mean you want to get more details about it before deciding on your purchase. Vehicle damage can be repaired, just make sure you know it was done correctly to ensure safe driving ahead.
- Mechanical Check – Visit a local certified mechanic to see what they have to say about the vehicle you are considering purchasing. They may be able to identify issues you have overlooked and will let you know how costly these problems can be. This will help you make a fully informed decision. Problems with brakes, the engine, transmission, or suspension can be extremely costly and might have you looking for another used vehicle instead.
- Test It Out – Take a test drive in the car or truck you are considering purchasing. This will tell you how smooth it rides, how comfortable it is, and how it handles. Does it accelerate well? Is there smooth handling around corners? Answers to many of your questions will be evident during a few kilometres on a variety of roadways. Your used vehicle should be comfortable, quiet, and maneuver easily, regardless of what the paperwork says.
- Standard Checks – Check the climate control to see if the air conditioning is working and heat comes out fluidly. Look to see if the defroster works and if any other options like seat heaters or a heated steering wheel are working. Test out the entertainment system including audio, Bluetooth connectivity, and radio reception. If your vehicle is equipped with GPS, make sure the mapping is up to date. These small details can make all the difference in your day-to-day operation of the vehicle.
- Research – Take the time to do your research before shopping for a vehicle. Knowing what the cost should be on the specific make, model, and year you are looking for is important, so you make the right deal.
- In-Person Discussions – Speaking with the seller of a used vehicle in person is always better than over the phone or e-mail. This way, you can get a feel for the person’s honesty through body language. Take it all in as you ask questions and make your final decision.
- Sniff It Out – You can find things that are sometimes invisible to the naked eye with your nose. Odors like cigarette smoke can linger in the cloth or leather seats of a vehicle and be hard to get out. If you smell burning oil or gas, then you may want to move on to a different used vehicle as this smell could be a sign of a serious and costly issue.
- Always Look in Person – Viewing a car through pictures is different than seeing it in person. Photos can hide things or be photoshopped to appear better than they are. There may be knicks and dents or hail damage that is only visible in person. So, head out and make sure that the vehicle you are looking at really is everything it is cracked up to be.
Finding a reliable used car or truck can be easy if you know what to look for.
Ford Makes All the Difference
Regardless of the type of vehicle you get, you want to be happy with your purchase. At Metro Ford, we provide used vehicles in Calgary that are in great condition, making them reliable for your ventures on and off the road. Feel the difference with any of our Ford makes and models.