Plan out your finances for purchase
There are some significant differences between shopping for and applying for used car financing and getting a new car loan. You should expect to pay a higher interest rate because lenders consider used car loans to be riskier than new car loans.
Lenders generally view used car loans as riskier for a variety of reasons, including the fact that their values are less predictable. The car’s value serves as collateral for the loan. Used car purchasers may also face higher repair costs, which may compete with timely car payments.
If you choose a relatively new or certified used car, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find a lender who will offer you the same loan terms as a new-car buyer. Getting a good deal on used car financing can take some planning and effort. Following these steps will help you get the best deal possible.
Decide where you want to buy your used car
There are numerous places to get used car financing, just as there are numerous places to buy a used car. Each has advantages and disadvantages in terms of service, convenience, and cost. You should try to learn as much as you can about the dealership or private seller trying to sell you the car you want.
Checking with your local Better Business Bureau or consumer protection agency is an easy way to learn about the company’s track record. You want to look at how they responded to the problems, not just how many complaints they received.
Some good options for used car marketplaces are as follows:
Autotrader
Autotrader is a car marketplace that features millions of vehicles for sale from thousands of auto dealers and private sellers. Customers can search for cars by new, used, certified preowned, make, model, body style, color, price, geography, and other criteria on the website. It also allows you to filter your results based on fuel economy and a variety of other criteria.
Customers can use the site to find out how much their car is worth and to advertise it for sale. You’ll find simple car payment and affordability calculators, as well as a dealer locator. New-car reviews are also available.
Kelley Blue Book
A car buyer’s best friend is the Kelley Blue Book. It gives you an accurate estimate of how much your car is worth, how much you should pay for a used car and a large selection of used and new car listings. You can look through top picks and tips, calculate a monthly car payment, and compare multiple vehicles.
There are also expert and consumer reviews, as well as options for finding local dealers and checking your credit score. You can also browse a variety of award pages, allowing you to quickly peruse the best of the best.
AutoTempest.com
The website combines results from several shopping websites, including those listed above, such as Cars.com, CarsDirect, Carvana, eBay Motors, and TrueCar.com, and allows for easy comparisons with Autotrader, CarGurus, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. The homepage of AutoTempest also includes buying guides, checklists, and advice, as well as tips on negotiating and avoiding buying a lemon, among other things.
Car-enthusiast forums
If you’re looking for something specific, don’t be afraid to look into online car owner and enthusiast groups that are related to what you’re looking for. If you’re using Google, add “forums” or “owners club” to the vehicle you’re looking for.
There’s a community for almost every vehicle out there, even unloved ones, whether you’re selling vintage Porsches or cars from the late AMC brand. You can also utilize social media platforms like Facebook to explore more options!
