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Buying a used car can be a smart and economical way to get a great, reliable vehicle. Since prices significantly decrease as soon as cars are driven off the lot, used cars are a great value. Knowing how to shop wisely and look for a deal can save you a lot of money, and knowing the dos and don’ts of dealing with used car dealers in Anchorage, Alaska, can help you have a smooth and pleasant experience. Do: Figure out the Details First Before heading out to search for cars, it is wise to do some homework first. Peruse the Internet, figure out a budget, and consider your options. The more you know about what you want before the process really begins, the more likely you are to end up satisfied with your final purchase. Check out consumer reports to determine which cars are rated as the most reliable, and then figure out the type of vehicle you want based on your needs and preferences. Larger families, long commutes, the need for Bluetooth and other technological capabilities, or handling in frequent off-road or bad weather conditions can all factor into the vehicle that you ultimately choose. Consider colors, body styles, and other details that you like and prefer. Call the dealer before you show up. Driving to the dealership only to find that the car you are interested in is not currently in stock is a waste of time, and calling ahead ensures you will be able to browse the selection you want. Don’t: Settle Unless you are in a major rush to find a vehicle (not recommended), hold out until you find what you want. As long as your expectations are reasonable, you will probably be able to find something that meets your needs and is within your price range. Shop around, wait for the right deal to pop up, and make sure the car is something you will be glad to have in the long run, rather than making an impulsive decision. Do: Check It Out in Person A vehicle history report can tell you a lot about what the car you are considering has been through, but it doesn’t tell you everything. A test drive will give you an idea of what you can expect from the car, and it is better to perform an inspection of the vehicle in person. Look under the hood to see the general condition of things, open and close all the doors and windows, check out the trunk, and take a look at the overall body condition, checking for rust, dents, or major scratches. Don’t: Forget the Little Things When performing your inspection, don’t be afraid to go all-out. It’s worth that little bit of time and effort to ensure everything is functional and in good condition. Bounce each corner of the vehicle, checking the suspension. Inspect the tires, particularly for tread that is thick enough and sidewalls that are free from major damage. Confirm that all the lights work and that they are not fogged from the inside, check the stereo and speakers, check for bad smells or noises, make sure the sun roof works properly, check for a sagging roof, adjust all the seats, and listen to the brakes. The more components you test, the better you will know what you are getting yourself into. Do: Go for the Deal Once you know you want the car, try to get the best price. Using numbers you can find online, negotiate, use any trade-ins, and make sure you leave at a price you can feel good about. Used car dealers in Anchorage, Alaska, are often willing to work with customers, so don’t be afraid to ask.
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