What to Look for When You’re Shopping for a Used Car in Powell?

Shopping for used car sales in Powell, OH, is an exciting journey. There are a variety of dealerships and vehicles to choose from. The trouble begins when stacking each choice against the next and knowing how to pick a deal from a dud.

Auto Assets is a leading performance vehicle importer, serving Powell and surrounding areas. With more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, we know a thing or two about what makes a car worth buying.

In this blog, we’ll break down what to look for in a used car and how to go about obtaining that information.

Request Vehicle History

A vehicle’s history report tells you plenty about the car you have your eye on. The used car dealership should have access to a full vehicle history, including details such as:

• Previous owners
• Accidents
• Prior work/maintenance

Knowing the history of the vehicle helps you decide whether a car has a long left left to live, or is on the way out. It can also save you money, by providing information on how previous damage could impact ongoing repairs and maintenance.

Inspect the Vehicle

Along with a history explaining what the vehicle has been through, you should have the car inspected by a certified mechanic. Car sales staff are great at what they do, but they aren’t always aware of the inner workings of the vehicle. It helps to get a second opinion on whether a vehicle is in good working order or may encounter future problems.

Things to look at during this time include the engine, tire wear and alignment, steering, brakes, suspension, fluid leaks, hoses, exhaust, engine oil, and more.

Test Drive

Taking a test drive away from the used car dealership helps you better understand how the vehicle performs. Pay close attention to any odd sounds or smells coming from the engine, and monitor any issues with steering, braking, turning, or starting the car.

If the ride is smooth, it still helps to request the vehicle history and an inspection. This ensures the test drive wasn’t a fluke, and the car really is in good working order.

Checking Out the Extras

Once the vehicle has been inspected for safety purposes, you should look at its additional components. Some areas to focus on include:

• Upholstery: Is the vehicle clean, without holes, and includes only minor wear and tear? If not, it might be worth asking for a discount or choosing another model, depending on the extent of the damage.
• Speakers and Sound: It seems like such a small thing in the grand scheme of the vehicle, but a broken sound system can be an inconvenience and an annoyance. Check to make sure the speakers work, and you can use the mode of media you prefer.
• Special Features: Some vehicle models come with special trim, touchscreen media consoles, extra speakers, seat warmers, and other features. Check to see if the model at the used car dealership should have those features and whether it does.

Take your time as you investigate the inside and outside of any potential new vehicle. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Contact Auto Assets Today to Learn More

Looking for a used car in Powell, Oh? Elevate your auto shopping experience with expert care from Auto Assets Sales and Service in Powell. Schedule your appointment now for an unparalleled experience while you find your next vehicle.