Looking for used cars or used trucks in Charleston, SC? If you’re new to used car shopping, you may find the process a bit intimidating or may not know where to even start. But even if you’re a seasoned used car shopper, you may need a little refresher. We’re here to help. Below, we’ve provided a handy guide for you to review so you can head to the dealership feeling prepared to find your next reliable ride!
Whether you’re looking for used cars in Mount Pleasant, SC, or used cars in Charleston, SC, discover the wide selection of pre-owned vehicles we have available here at Hoover Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Summerville.
Check the Vehicle’s History: A Must for Reliability
When trying to determine if a vehicle is reliable, taking a look at its history is a great place to start. Once you’ve found a used vehicle that seems like a potential fit for your lifestyle, ask the dealer if you can see the vehicle’s history report. The vehicle history report can provide helpful information about the vehicle’s past life. With a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™, for example, you can see details such as how many owners the vehicle had, what the vehicle was used for, if it was in any accidents, and what kind of service it received and when. Knowing this type of information can help you move forward with more confidence.
Before you finalize your purchase, you can have the used car inspected by a mechanic you trust to check for any major issues. It’s also a good idea to find out if the used car you’re considering has any recalls. You can check for recalls at NHTSA.gov.
Signs a Used Vehicle is in Good Condition
As you search for used car dealers in Mount Pleasant, SC, or shop for used trucks near Charleston, SC, there are a few signs you can look for to see how a pre-owned vehicle was taken care of. For starters, if a used vehicle has low mileage, you can expect it to have less wear and tear than a vehicle with higher mileage. You can also expect the vehicle to last a long time with proper care.
Another sign that a used vehicle is likely in good condition is that it’s free of rust. You’ll want to look for a vehicle that doesn’t have any rust, as rust can become a serious problem. In addition, if the interior of the vehicle is in good shape, there’s a strong chance that the rest of the vehicle is too. We’ll get into more specifics of what to look for with our used car inspection checklist below.
Visual Inspection and Test Drive
While it’s a good idea to have your mechanic perform an inspection on a used vehicle you’re considering, here are some main areas you can look at initially on your own.
Exterior
Make your way around the vehicle to check for signs of damage such as scratches or dents. Potential red flags may include panels that don’t line up correctly or areas where the paint doesn’t match the rest of the exterior. Take a look at the windows and windshield to see if there is any damage to the glass, and test all of the exterior lights — don’t forget the turn signals and brake lights! Check the tires too for signs of uneven wear and other issues like bulges or cracks.
Interior
Take a look inside the cabin and inspect the upholstery for any excess damage. Do you notice any unappealing smells? If the cabin smells musty, this could mean there’s a leak somewhere. Test the comfort of the seats and make sure they can be adjusted easily. Test the heat and air conditioning and make sure the windows roll up and down smoothly. And don’t forget the sunroof, if applicable. Make sure all other features are working properly, including the infotainment system.
Engine & More
Before the test drive, pop the hood and take a look at the engine. See if the engine oil is fresh and at the proper level. You’ll also want to look for any signs of leaking. In addition, check to see if the belts, hoses, and battery are in good condition.
Test-Drive the Vehicle
Once your vehicle has checked all of your boxes, it’s time for the test drive! Make sure you spend enough time driving the car to see if it’s the right fit for you and if there are any glaring issues that arise. Listen for any unusual sounds while you drive and see how the vehicle performs on various roads and at different speeds. You’ll want to know how the brakes feel and how well the vehicle accelerates.
Find a Quality Used Car at Hoover Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Summerville
We hope these reliable used car buying tips prove helpful in your used car search. If you’re looking for Mount Pleasant used cars or used Ram trucks near you, stop by our dealership in Summerville to check out the quality used vehicles we have in stock today. We have a huge selection for you to choose from!
We also offer affordable used car financing and can even help with bad credit car loans. Feel free to contact a member of our team for more information! In addition, you can schedule an appointment with our qualified service team when your vehicle needs parts and service. From oil changes to Mopar tires, we offer service and parts that will keep your vehicle in excellent shape.