Quote:
Originally Posted by SteveA
The bosses car was totaled last weekend- (no major injury's, thankfully) But we are going to need a good replacement.
We are torn between a "good used car" , now there's an oxymoron, and a new car.
Her old car was all paid so I'm not crazy about car payments. I've ALWAYS bought new and drove them till they were dead,
so I don't know any "Used Car" folks, and I'm very reluctant to buy private sale.
We're looking for a 2005-6 Full Size SUV, prefer the Jeep Grand Cherokee, like the one we had. It was a 2004 and we never
had any major problems with it. Looks like the guys insurance is going to pay us out about $10-11K for her car.
Any advice appreciated.
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I've bought many used cars, it's tough because in the used market you're at the mercy of what is readily available.
First thing that I look at is the cosmetic condition of the vehicle from the outside. If it has any signs of abuse I move on. I am picky too, I don't care how old the car is or the mileage if there are dings, dents, scratches, rust etc... forget it.
Second thing I look at is the interior. If it's dirty, ripped and stained then again it goes to the way the previous owner took care of it. If it's not as new or shows very minimal wear I move on.
Chances are if the first two pass then unless you're mechanically inclined and able to do a good on the spot evaluation of the mechanics insist on taking it to an independent place to be gone through. DO NOT trust the dealer will do this for you, and no matter what they tell you about 1000 point inspections and warranties the reality is they do the bare minimum to turn the vehicle around and sell it. They are obligated to only sell something that will pass inspection and what passes or fails is in the opinion of the person doing it most times.
Finally be wary of small dealerships they get most of their inventory from dealer cast off auctions. If the big dealers send them to auction usually there is a good reason for it although you can occasionally find good used vehicles there that were sold at auction for no other reason than mileage and age. That is pretty rare though.
Good luck in your search!