Purchasing a pre-owned car is a great way to save some money while also securing a reliable vehicle. However, to ensure you make a wise investment, you'll need to carefully evaluate the history and condition of your options to avoid costly repair and maintenance services. Here are a few questions that will help you gauge the quality of a vehicle before you buy.  

A Guide to Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle

How old is the car & how many miles does it have?

The number of miles on a vehicle can tell you how much it was driven by the previous owner. Keep in mind that most drivers put about 14,000 miles on their cars each year, which means that an average ten-year-old vehicle will have about 140,000 miles. If the number of miles doesn't line up with the age of the vehicle, the new owner might notice more wear and tear, which can lead to costly repairs.

Are there maintenance records available?

A well-maintained vehicle is the best investment you can make when searching for a car. Even higher-mileage vehicles can offer many more years of dependable service if they received proper maintenance from the previous owner. If service and maintenance records aren't available, ask if you can contact the technician that worked on the vehicle. They'll be able to provide you with specific insight into the car or truck's quality. 

How many previous owners are there?

A vehicle with a single owner will usually be in better condition than one with multiple owners, as not all the previous owners will maintain the car at the same level. Additionally, a vehicle that has had multiple owners might suggest a problem with the vehicle itself. This is especially true if owners only had the car or truck in their possession for a short period of time before selling it. 

Has the car been involved in any accidents?

Even a newer pre-owned vehicle with a low number of miles can be problematic if it's been involved in an accident. A major accident can cause problems like frame and windshield damage, which can be expensive to repair. In addition to asking the owner about previous accidents, you can also purchase a vehicle history report online to learn more about its condition. 

If you're in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, turn to Pat Kaiser's Christiansen Motors Inc. in Audubon, IA. They stock a wide inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles to suit every customer, from sedans to SUVs. When you purchase a pre-owned vehicle, you can rest easy knowing they use a comprehensive service check to ensure your satisfaction. Visit the website to start shopping today, or call (712) 563-4241 for more information.