Many Canadians need to have their own vehicle to drive. But buying a new car may be out of your budget. Luckily, there are a lot of benefits to purchasing a used car, including the fact that buying a used car can help you stay within budget. A vehicle depreciates the most within its first few years on the road, so getting a high-quality pre-owned model can have financial benefits beyond the lower monthly payments. Here are some tips to help you get the best car at the best price when shopping for a used car in Ottawa or anywhere else in Canada.
Determine Your Budget
Having a budget means knowing precisely what you can afford to spend on your monthly car payments. It's easy to get swept up in high-end features and luxury models when you're at the dealership, so setting a budget for yourself can help you stay away from the ones you can't afford right from the start. But it doesn't end there. You also need to know how much you’ll be paying for car insurance, maintenance, and any other factors associated with owning the vehicle you want. Once you know your budget, you can look for a car within that price range.
Shop for a Vehicle Online
Thanks to the power of the internet, shopping for a new car can be easy. Just pull up our online inventory page and search for a used model that fits the budget you've already established. You can use other filters to narrow down or expand your search based on your needs.
Choose a sleek sedan, such as the Hyundai Elantra or Chevrolet Malibu, or choose a tough and rugged truck, such as the Jeep Gladiator or Chevrolet Colorado. We frequently have used models of these available, and our inventory is constantly changing, so check back often to see what's currently on the lot.
Decide Where To Buy
Ottawa certainly has its share of auto dealerships, and we encourage you to shop around for the one that best suits your needs. You can check dealership reviews from customers who have purchased vehicles in the past. It may also be a good idea to check reviews of the service department since you'll need to bring your vehicle back for routine maintenance at some point. We're sure you'll find that all our customers leave satisfied with their vehicles and their repairs because we go out of our way to provide exceptional service.
Research the Vehicle
Once you know which vehicle you want and which dealership you want to buy from, you can research it. This should include getting a detailed history report that gives you information on the vehicle's past maintenance, records of any accidents, and details on who the previous owners were. Another thing to consider before you purchase a used car in Canada is getting a pre-purchase inspection report. This document will provide information on the car's cosmetic, mechanical, and safety conditions. You can then use this information to get a better deal on the vehicle when you're ready to purchase it.
Test-Drive the Vehicle
If you've determined that a vehicle has the right price to fit your budget, is available at a dealership where you want to shop, and is in good working order and condition, you can go to the lot and take it for a test drive. We highly recommend taking the car you want to own out on the road before you buy it, as it allows you to see how it feels to be behind the wheel.
It’s important that you pay attention to how the car handles at both low and high speeds. Remember to also check out things such as the placement and ease of the controls for the heat, radio, and other things you may want to change as you drive. Don't be afraid to ask questions while you’re testing the car to ensure you feel comfortable with your choice.
Negotiate the Price
After you settle on the particular vehicle you want, it's time to negotiate the price. Before you go to the dealership, make sure you know the market value of the car you want. Research the price for similar makes and models at other dealerships, and be sure to check for similar features to the model you're considering. You can also use the information from your vehicle reports to help you get a better price. For example, if you know the vehicle has had bodywork done, you may be able to get it for less than the dealer is asking.
Apply for Financing
It's common for car buyers to require financing to help with the purchase of their new vehicle, even if it’s a used model. When you know which one you want and how much it will cost, you can apply for financing if you require it. Jim Tubman Chevrolet has an excellent finance department that can help connect you with a lender who can offer you the right terms. We help everyone get financing, even those with no credit or negative entries on their reports. Let us help you finalize the deal on the car you want.
Close the Deal
The dealership will typically complete all the paperwork to close the deal on your new used vehicle. This process shouldn't take long, and once it's finished, you can drive away in your new-to-you car. Keep in mind that buying a used car from a private seller has different requirements, and you may need to determine what these are in your province to ensure you complete the transaction correctly. Even when purchasing from a dealership, buying a used car can be different in each province, so be sure to check the rules if you're not in Ottawa.
If you're looking for the ideal used vehicle that fits your budget and meets your needs, you can stop by Jim Tubman Chevrolet to see what we have available. We have a wide selection, so you're sure to find something that suits your lifestyle and driving habits. You can contact us to find out more about any of the vehicles we offer.
Image by Kenny Eliason is licensed with Unsplash License
