What to Know When Buying Used Vehicle

Heed this advice from Crotty Chevrolet, OnStar and Autotrader.com when buying a used vehicle


As a leader in vehicle connectivity, OnStar provides valuable services to not only owners of new General Motors vehicles, but to owners of used vehicles as well.

Approximately 3.3 used cars are sold for every one new car sold, which makes understanding the buying process an important skill.

Mindful of the difficulties that many drivers face when purchasing a used vehicle, Crotty Chevrolet Buick, OnStar, and AutoTrader.com have teamed up to make buying pre-owned vehicles a little easier.

Below are few tips from Crotty Chevrolet, AutoTrader.com and OnStar about what to know and do, when shopping for a used car:

  • Consider purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle: Certified pre-owned vehicles usually come with extended warranties and have been thoroughly inspected before being sold.
  • Make sure the potential vehicle is functional for everyone who will be traveling in it: If searching for a used family vehicle, bring the whole family on an extended test drive to make sure everyone is comfortable with the vehicle.  If you have small children, use this time to make sure child safety seats fit and can easily be installed in the vehicle.
  • Purchase a vehicle history report and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic: Taking both of these actions can reduce the chance of unexpected issues later.
  • Ask about promotional programs: Many manufactures offer incentives to purchase their used vehicles. For instance, buyers of used GM vehicles equipped with OnStar are eligible to receive a three-month free trial of OnStar’s Directions & Connections package, which includes Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Automatic Crash Response, Remote Door Unlock, Hands-Free Calling and more.
  • Secure your financing in advance: Because used vehicle loans can vary when it comes to interest rates, visit your local bank or credit union before making a final decision so you can be sure you’re receiving the best interest rate.
  • Don’t negotiate price based on what you want your monthly payment to be: Monthly payments can always be lowered to fit your budget by extending the length of the loan. But extending the length of the loan makes the car more expensive. Negotiations should be made based on the price of the car, rather that the monthly payment.
  • Remember the sale process continues past the acceptance of an offer: After both parties agree upon an appropriate price, dealers usually will offer extra accessories and services you might not be interested in. Be sure to stand firm and make it clear that you are not interested in paying more than the previously agreed upon price.

Crotty Chevrolet Buick in Corry, PA since 1969 has been helping customers from Corry, Erie, Warren, Titusville, and Jamestown find the right new or used car at the price that works for them.  We have provided our customers with a portfolio of fuel-efficient Chevrolet and Buick vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, high quality, and value.  All backed by our award winning service department.  Learn more about our Chevrolet Cars, Trucks, and SUVs and the Luxury of a Buick Car or Crossover by visiting our website, blog or on our facebook page.