How do I know if I am getting a bargain on a used car?

Question

Hello. I'm planning on purchasing my first car and I really don't know where to begin. I'm looking for a used car under 10,000 but I don't know if I am getting a bargain? I know it depends on year and car model but what are other factors should I think about? I also hear if a car's used mileage is over 100,000 miles its a bad car? Is this true? Thank you!

Answer 1

have it checked first  .Take an adult male with you..

Answer 2

I can tell you this if your getting a car under 10,000 miles and good body and everything works i would say a bargain is from $11,000 to $20,000 depending on size and engine. I have car that are over 100,000 miles and they are fine as long as you get the oil and filter and air filter changed regularly you should be fine and do regular maintinance and tune ups.

Answer 3

go look at cars that you would like to buy go to kbb.com to see how much that car should sell for when you think you have found the car for you make sure that you have it checked out by a mechanic

Answer 4

You should go to a car auction. You'll definitely get a good running car there for well under $10,000. Just be sure to take a mechanic with you to check the engine, transmission, electric system, etc. Since you will be driving a lot you should get a car that has less than 100,000 miles on it. http://www.mycarauctionreview.com reviews the best car auction lists if you don't know where any auctions are located in your city.

Answer 5

Narrow down your choices to two specific cars. Search them out on local lots. Test drive all of them. Even if you know nothing about cars, you will get to know the feel, the sound, the smell;), of them.

When you think you have one, use Galves.com (you can buy a one day pass) to establish the wholesale value - the dealers do. They are the auction market guides for used cars. Work up from the wholesale numbers. If not, ask the dealer what "Galves" is showing on their car. If they don't want to show you...chances are you will pay too much. If they are"tight" on their deal, they may start explaining that they put on new tires, brakes, etc. You can sound excited and say "great, can I see the R.O's? (Repair Orders)". Are you getting the flavor now?

Now, use some logic. If you find a really find a good one, you'll likely spend a little more. But if you've driven 2 or 3, you'll know it when you feel it. You've found your car!

PS I always tell my female friends - You should spend at least as much time shopping for a car as you would shopping for a dress to wear to a wedding! Cheers!

Answer 6

I would go look at a  dealership, and you don't need a guy to go with you, see what they are asking, write down model and what options it has, research on the Internet at a site like Edmund's, or KBB.com and offer them the price listed on there. the normal mark up is around 2500.00 for a typical used car unless they are trying to rip your head off. stay away from bank repo sales or the like.

Answer 7

get a cheap car for your first one $1000-$3000

your average vehicle can go 200,000 before major repairs

and every car needs maintainance

Answer 8

buy a buick,i am at 170000, and still rocking