Buying Guide: 8 Tips for Purchasing a Used Vehicle

 

According to automotive sales data, used car sales continue to be strong nationally. With more than seven million motorists on the road in Georgia, knowing the steps to buy the right pre-owned vehicle can lead to a longer car life and cleaner air for all.

It's important for consumers to do proper research to ensure their time and money are well spent in the car-buying process. 

To that end, Georgia’s Clean Air Force, in partnership with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), offers eight important tips to help motorists expertly choose a pre-owned car or truck.

• Set Guidelines. Before purchasing a pre-owned automobile, create a list of your specific needs, familiarize yourself with vehicles you’re interested in and establish a budget.
• Get a Free Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR). Georgia’s Clean Air Force’s website provides a summary of the most recent vehicle inspection reports to inform motorists of the vehicle’s latest valid, passing emissions inspection: www.cleanairforce.com/motorists/vir-reprints/.
• Request a Carfax Report. Carfax reports provide the vehicle’s history, including whether the car has been involved in an accident or a range of other negative events.
• Research the Dealer. Before buying a pre-owned vehicle, make sure you know who you are purchasing from. By researching dealers, you can eliminate untrustworthy sellers or those with negative comments.
• Make Contact and Schedule a Test Drive. Calling the seller is a great way to verify the car’s information and schedule a test drive. A test drive can tell you if the car is the right make and model for you and provides further insight into its condition.
• Obtain a Pre-Purchase Inspection. Hire a trusted professional to perform a pre-purchase inspection.
• Complete an On-Board Diagnostic Test. An on-board diagnostic test determines what kind of repairs need to be performed on the vehicle. The test scans for codes that are linked to specific damage services and any preventative maintenance services.
• Factor in Location. Metro Atlanta has a 13-county emissions testing area that requires a passing test every year. Anyone residing outside of metro Atlanta’s 13-county emissions testing area are not required to provide a passing test at the time of sale, as 13-county sellers are required to.