Are you starting your search for a used car, truck or SUV — but don’t know where to start? If so, then this blog is for you! When it comes to buying a used vehicle, things can get complicated and appear overwhelming. That shouldn’t be a cause for concern, however, as we’re going to give you a list of five things you need to do when buying a used car. With this list of tips, you should be able to walk into any Champion Auto Group location and get a great deal on a used car, truck or SUV.

Before you dig into these juicy tips, remember one thing — Champion Auto Group is your go-to dealership for new and used vehicles from Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Chrysler, Chevrolet, GMC and Buick. If you live in Howell, Fowlerville, Ypsilanti or somewhere in between, there’s a Champion Auto Group location near you. If you don’t want to pay too much for you next vehicle, there’s only one place to buy from — Champion Auto Group.

Do Your Research

The first step to buying a used vehicle is pretty simple…do some research! Whether you’re using a computer, tablet or smartphone you can research used cars, trucks and SUVs with ease online. Online you can find valuable information and current vehicle listings on websites such as Cars.com, AutoTrader.com or even a local dealer site like Champion Auto Group.

Start your research off by determining what type of vehicle you like, whether that is a car, truck, SUV or even an electric vehicle (EV). From there, you can start to browse the different brands such as Jeep, Chrysler, Chevrolet and many more. While researching brands, we recommend using a website — like Consumer Reports — to find out what owners of that particular brand have to say about it.

Once you’ve figured out what brand and type of vehicle you like, the fun begins! Most automakers offer multiple models of vehicles in each category, whether that is a car, truck or SUV — so have fun choosing which one best fits your needs. A good way to see which model of vehicle fits you is to check out a vehicle research page, like this one on the Chevrolet Trailblazer posted by Champion Auto Group. These pages give you an in-depth glimpse into what that vehicle has to offer including trim levels, paint options, safety features and so much more.

Know exactly which brand and model vehicle you want to buy? Your research doesn’t end there, you now need to figure out where to find that vehicle. Dealerships can sell any brand of used vehicle they want, meaning there are a lot of options to choose from and ads to wade through when searching for your next used car, truck or SUV. This also means finding the right price for the used car you’re after can be difficult  — that’s why the best place to shop for a used vehicle is at your local Champion Auto Group location!

Set a Budget

Step two of purchasing a used car, truck or SUV is making sure you have a budget in place. Figure out just how much money you want to put down upfront, how much you can spend per month and even take a look into what you may spend on maintenance. Figuring this out before you set foot on a lot is a great way to save time and makes your purchase process a breeze!

Once you have figured out which used vehicle you want to purchase, take a look at the going price for them on the market. The price of your chosen vehicle may vary from dealership to dealership, with some charging more than others and offering varying perks. A variety of other factors come into play when determining the price of a used vehicle, including age, mileage, features and condition. Knowing just how much the vehicle should cost ensures you’ll never pay too much!

Do you want to know the secret to finding the best price for your next used vehicle? We’ll tell you! The best prices on all used cars, trucks and SUVs can be found at your nearest Champion Auto Group location.

Take a Thorough Walkaround

The third thing you need to do when buying a used vehicle is to take a thorough walk around the vehicle. A solid walk around lets you see any scratches, dings, dents or rust and also gives you a general idea of how the vehicle was maintained. This is standard procedure any time a dealer takes a trade-in, so why not take a page from their playbook?

While doing your walkaround, take a look inside the vehicle and get a good look at the interior. You can tell a lot from the interior of a vehicle, and it’s important to see any potential rips or tears in the seating or surfaces. Also make sure to keep an eye for what features are included inside and outside of the vehicle, does it have the premium wheels you want? How about the upgraded infotainment system? Doing a thorough walk-around is yet another great way to ensure you’re getting all of the features you want on a vehicle.

Check the Window Sticker

No matter where you shop, taking a look at the window sticker is essential when buying a used car, truck or SUV. The window sticker provides vital information you need to know before purchasing a used vehicle, including things like features, mileage and warranty details. Window stickers are also a binding contract, whatever is or isn’t listed on that window sticker is all the dealership has to provide.

One of the most important details on the window sticker is the warranty information — especially when purchasing a used vehicle. The window sticker will tell you if there is a manufacturer warranty, third-party warranty or none at all, so make sure to take a look at it once you’ve found the vehicle of your dreams.

While some manufacturers and dealerships offer Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, some dealerships include their own warranties or programs with used vehicles, like Champion Auto Group’s Checkered Flag Pre-Owned vehicles. You can find out the finer details of these warranties on the vehicle’s window sticker or dealership website, so make sure to give it a read to learn more about the great benefits you’ll receive.

Go On a Test Drive

The last of the five things you need to do when buying a used car is the most fun — go on a test drive! Getting behind the wheel of your potential next vehicle isn’t just fun, its a vital part of buying a used car too, so make sure you do it for every vehicle you’re considering buying.

When you test drive a used car, you’re not just getting a feel for all the fancy features included, you’re also learning if the vehicle works for you. During your test drive, make sure to test features like the radio and climate controls, adjusting them the way you would in your vehicle. Another great idea is to take the test drive near a route you drive regularly, such as your route to work or home.

If at all possible, ask your sales professional if you can drive past your house to test the fit of the vehicle in your driveway or garage. Really soak the test drive in, envision yourself driving it every day for the next few years — does it excite you? If so, then you need to buy that car, truck or SUV as soon as possible.

Getting a feel for your next used vehicle is key to finding the perfect car, truck or SUV — so stop by a Champion Auto Group location and test drive your next used vehicle today!

Time to Hit the Lot

Now that you know five of the best things to do when buying a used car, it’s time for you to hit your nearest Champion Auto Group location to find your dream car. Using your newfound knowledge, you’ll be able to find the perfect car, truck or SUV to fit your needs and lifestyle — all at the best price possible.

Whether you’re located in Royal Oak, Brighton, Lansing or anywhere in between, the best deals on used vehicles can be found at a Champion Auto Group location near you. Don’t pay more than you need to for your next used vehicle — get the best deal at a Champion Auto Group location near you today!