How to Choose a Used Car to Fit My Needs

You might find yourself in the market for a used vehicle and you want to make sure you make the best decision possible. You're going to be responsible for car payments for at least 36 months and you want to find a car that will last longer than the life of your car loan. You also need to take into account who will be driving the car and what its primary uses will be. You should keep in mind you're buying the car to fit your current needs.

Instructions

1

Figure out what your needs are for a car. Look at the car you're driving now and think of the features it has. Decide what features you'll need in your next car and figure out which of those features you must have, such as air conditioning or extra storage space. (See References 1)

2

Refine your purchase budget for your new used car by determining exactly how much you can afford for the car loan. Remember that you need to take into account the probable interest you'll be paying for the life of the loan as well as the monthly payments. Use this information to help steer you toward the cars you can afford.

3

Decide who is going to be driving the car. That will help you know what kind of features the car should have. Look for cars with additional safety features, like passenger-side airbags or side curtain airbags. (See References 1)

4

Rule out "dream car" or luxury features. You don't need them because you're replacing another car so you have the transportation necessary to get yourself and family members from one place to the next. (See References 1)

5

Decide how the car will be used. If it will be used primarily to transport young passengers and their sports or music equipment, you need a minivan or small SUV. If the new car will be used only for commuting purposes from home to work and back again, you should be looking at more fuel-efficient sedans or coupes. (See References 1)