There are lots of factors to consider when buying a used car, none more important than where you buy it from. After all, as the buyer you have to put a lot of faith in your seller or dealer, who can, if unreputable, rip you off. So, when shopping for a used car, check out both different car models and different car dealerships to be sure you’re getting the best of both worlds. And for the best place to buy a used car we have both things to look for in a trustworthy seller and things to look out for that might indicate shady dealings.
Things to Look For
- Good communication: Reputable dealerships will answer questions and provide information freely. No question is too small or too complex and answers should be equally as detailed and understandable. Trustworthy dealerships will also provide all relevant information on a car including a full car history.
- A range of cars on the lot: The best place to buy a new used car should have a wide selection of reliable models to choose from. High-quality inventory is a good sign that the car you might by from that dealership is also going to be in good working order.
- No pressure: Car buying used to be a pressure-filled haggle session, with both sides fronting to get themselves the best deal. But that’s not the way most modern consumers like to purchase a car, nor is that pressure necessary to do good business. So if you are shopping for a used car and feeling all sorts of pressure by the salesmen, it’s not a good sign that you’re in the best place to buy a used car; go elsewhere.
Things to Look Out For
- Poor-quality inventory: If you are on a used car lot and every car seems to be a bit off, a bit broken, not in the best condition; then what are the odds that the one you select from that sub-part inventory will actually turn out to be a diamond in the rough? Answer: not great.
- Missing documentation: Like any big purchase, buying a used car comes with its fair share of legally required paperwork. A big red flag is if the dealership doesn’t have the proper documentation like titles. It’s never a good deal if the accompanying paperwork is incomplete because it leaves you as the buyer vulnerable.
- Unhelpful staff: Trust your gut when shopping for a used car. If the salesforce is uncooperative, aggressive, ignorant, unwilling to answer questions, belittling, or in any way unprofessional or unhelpful leave. Customer service is important, and a hostile or poorly trained staff speaks to larger issues within the business that you don’t want any part of as the buyer.
- Bad reviews: While a couple angry reviews or negative comment about a dealership should be taken with a grain of salt, a series of bad reviews from your fellow community members should be heavily weighed. Reputable car dealerships will help resolve bad reviews.
Contact Us
If you’re in the greater Richmond area looking for the best place to buy a used car, connect with us at Richmond Car and Truck. We have a large lot of reliable vehicles, a warranty program, and a friendly staff of car experts. Visit the Richmond Car and Truck used car lot near Richmond, Kentucky or contact the team online today. Richmond Car and Truck Center serves Berea, Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, Winchester, Irvine, and Richmond, KY.