(CLAIR) – Are you the parent of a soon-to-be licensed Simi High or Royal High teenager and on the hunt for a safe and reliable used car? Navigating the used car market can be overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process a little bit easier.
Safety is of course the primary concern. As parents, we want to make sure our child is protected on the road. But, cost is also a major factor when it comes to buying a used car. Parents want to make sure they are getting a good deal and not overpaying for a vehicle that may have hidden issues.
That’s why we’ve consulted with a number of used car dealers in Simi Valley to give you the insider scoop on how to spot a reputable seller.
Following are 10 easy ways to know if your used car dealer is NOT trying to scam you:
- The dealership has a good reputation and positive customer reviews: Does the dealership have a history of satisfied customers and positive feedback? For example, a dealership that has many positive reviews on sites like Yelp or Google is likely to have a good reputation.
- The dealership is transparent about the car’s history and condition: Does the dealership provide accurate and complete information about the car’s history, including accidents, repairs, and service history? For example, a dealership that provides a Carfax report or allows a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is being transparent about the car’s history and condition.
- The dealership offers a warranty or guarantee on the car: Does the dealership provide some level of protection for the car in case of any issues or defects? For example, a dealership that offers a 90-day or 6-month warranty on the car is providing a guarantee on the car.
- The dealership is willing to let you have a mechanic inspect the car before purchasing: Does the dealership allow you to have an independent mechanic inspect the car to check for any issues or potential repairs. For example, a dealership that allows you to take the car to your own mechanic for an inspection is being willing to let you inspect the car before purchasing.
- The dealership has a wide variety of vehicles to choose from: Does the dealership have a large selection of cars available, including different makes, models, and price ranges? For example, a dealership that has a wide variety of cars, from compact cars to SUVs, is offering a wide variety of vehicles to choose from.
- The dealership is willing to negotiate the price of the car: Does the dealership is open to discussing the price of the car and making adjustments to the final price? For example, a dealership that is willing to lower the price of the car based on your trade-in or financing options is willing to negotiate the price of the car.
- The dealership offers financing options for customers: Does the dealership has a variety of financing options available for customers, including loans and leases? For example, a dealership that offers financing through multiple banks and credit unions is offering financing options for customers.
- The dealership has knowledgeable and helpful sales staff: Does the dealership has salespeople who are knowledgeable about the cars they are selling and can answer any questions a customer may have? For example, a dealership that has salespeople who can explain the features and benefits of different cars is having knowledgeable and helpful sales staff.
- The dealership is certified by the National Independent Automobile Transporters Association (NIADA) or the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA): Does the dealership has met certain standards and requirements set by these organizations and is considered reputable. For example, a dealership that is certified by the NIADA or NADA is considered reputable.
- The dealership is willing to provide Carfax or vehicle history report on request: Does the dealership is willing to provide a detailed history report of the car, including its ownership, accident, and service history? For example, a dealership that provides a Carfax report or allows you to run a vehicle history report on the car is willing to provide a Carfax or vehicle history report on request.
