San Diego is one of the most popular places to live in the US, and with the beautiful beaches and relaxed lifestyle, it’s easy to see why. And if you’re moving to San Diego from another city, which means you’ll need to buy a car to get around! Buying used cars in San Diego can be tricky, but we’ve put together tips to help you pick out your perfect vehicle.
1) Get Personal Recommendations
One of my first questions, when someone asks me about buying a used car, is, who do you know who has bought a used car recently? If your friends or family have had good experiences buying used cars in San Diego, ask them if they can recommend specific dealerships.
2) Know What You Want
Look beyond aesthetics and make sure you’re choosing a car that fits your needs. Do you want something with a lot of space or more power? Whatever your needs, make sure they fit into what you’re looking at buying. Sure, it might be cool to have a Porsche, but if you’re on a tight budget, do some research and find out which used cars in San Diego are most affordable for someone on your income level.
3) Do The Research Online First
Of course, if you’re trying to buy a car, you have to do research first—right? Well, yes and no. When it comes to used cars in particular, your main source of information should be online. There are many great websites out there where people share their experiences with cars and can provide you with valuable insights into what brands of vehicles tend to fare better than others.
4) Take it For a Test Drive
Before buying a used car, it’s critical to take it out on the road. This is important for several reasons. First, you need to confirm that you like how it drives and fits with your lifestyle and needs. Second, you want to make sure there are no safety issues or malfunctions (brakes, engine, etc.). Finally, if you plan on financing your purchase with a bank or credit union (which is recommended), you’ll want to verify that they will finance a used car purchase.
5) Ask The Right Questions
Asking good questions can help you choose a used car that’s right for you and your lifestyle. Ask sellers about their cars, ask friends and family what they drive, and ask your mechanic to recommend trustworthy used car lots. If something seems fishy, don’t be afraid to walk away—there are plenty of other cars out there!
6) Buy From Someone Who Inspects The Car
You want to find a car that’s been checked over by someone who knows what they’re doing. A mechanic, used car dealer, or even your mom will be able to inspect the car and point out any problems they might find with it. These problems might not always be visible on first inspection—especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for—so having someone check it out is a great way to save yourself a lot of trouble down the road.