Buying a car is a significant investment, and one of the best ways to save money is to buy a used one instead of a brand-new one. One of the big decisions you need to make when looking for used cars is where to make your big purchase. Car dealers offer both new and used cars, but another option is the used car superstore. Here is a look at some advantages and disadvantages of both, so you can decide where to buy.
Used Cars at New Car Dealers
Looking for your used car at a dealership that sells new and used vehicles is a good way to get a used car from a reputable dealer you know you can trust. Dealerships associated with a specific brand or group of brands often offer better financing options, including financing through the dealership. Independent auto dealer superstores often don’t offer buy-here-pay-here options.
Car Dealers Offer Certified Pre-Owned Cars
Another benefit to buying from a dealer is their inventory of certified pre-owned used cars. Certified used cars come with extra guarantees of their reliability and come backed with a limited warranty, even if it’s not the brand associated with the dealership. Certified pre-owned cars and trucks are usually just a few years old and have gone through a thorough inspection. If there are any problems, technicians recondition them with factory parts before they hit the lot.
What Is a Used Car Superstore?
A used car superstore is usually not associated with one or more specific automotive brands. It offers used cars from all different manufacturers. Many of them are part of The National Association of Independent Automobile Dealers, which includes not only nationwide car superstores such as Carmax and Autotrader along with small independent dealers.
The Benefits of Buying from a Used Car Superstore
Large used car superstores have access to more used vehicles than local dealerships, and because of this, they can offer their used cars at lower prices. These superstores often have older models that dealers don’t keep on their lots and offer them for less money. Some used car superstores offer financing, and some of the larger companies even offer buy-here-pay-here. If you don’t have good credit, this might be a good option for you but watch out for high interest rates. Before choosing this option, fill out their finance application and find out what type of terms they can offer.
Dealer or Used Car Superstore: Which Is Right for You?
The best way to determine if buying from a dealership or independent used car dealer is the right choice for you is research and more research. Shop around, ask questions, and talk to salespeople and the finance team to see where you can get the best car for the best price. A dealer is often a good choice if you’ve worked with them in the past, and they are often local and trustworthy.
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