Where to Shop for a Pre-Owned Car, Truck, or SUV?

What is the Best Way to Get a Great Deal on a Pre-Owned Car, Truck, or SUV?

Today’s car buyers have just about too many places to shop for their next ride. From classifieds to social media to websites, we’re overwhelmed with options and a seemingly unending supply of vehicles. So just where can we go to receive the best deal? It comes down to three options: a private transaction, a dealership, or a small car lot. Every option has its pros and cons, but when making such a large financial decision you want to give yourself the best opportunity of getting the best deal you can.

Independent Seller Auto Purchasing

If you’re seeking a particular vehicle, particularly an older car, then a personal seller may be your best option. You could get a great price on the car you are looking for, but you assume almost all of the risk. You will be responsible for all of the items found at the dealership:

Reviews – There may be absolutely no background information. Do you trust the seller?
History of the Vehicle – If you want a history report, you’ll be paying for one.
Financing – Many sellers want cash, but you can also try getting a loan through your own lender. Either way, your choices are smaller.
Warranty – Buyer Beware, Caveat Emptor
Inspections – A 3rd party pre-purchase inspection is suggested, but you would be on the hook for the cost.
The Vehicle’s Current Condition – There might be unknown or underlying reasons why they are selling the car.

Pre-Owned Vehicles From Independent Sellers

Pre-Owned Car Lot Sales

An independent pre-owned car lot can offer some of the services of a big dealer, such as a large selection of cars, trucks, or SUVs and the possibility of viewing them online. You can still get a big choice of cars, trucks, or SUVs and the possibility of browsing them online at an independent pre-owned car lot, but they do present more risks to buyers. While some car lots might be entrenched in the community, many others appear to come and go quickly. Here are a few of the other important differences between a dealer and a used car lot:

Vehicle Inspections – Inspections at car lots are generally not quite as thorough.
Mechanics – Limited on-site mechanics, some with limited experience.
Condition of the Vehicle – Be on the lookout for high mileage vehicles with potentially dubious histories.
Certified Pre-Owned – CPO vehicles are available only at approved dealerships.
Pre-Sale Repairs – ‘Quick fixes’ may be employed to maximize profits and save money.
Character – Some used car lots prioritize profitability over customers.
Vehicle Financing – If they even offer financing, their interest rates are generally higher than most.

Used Car Shopping From the Auto Dealership

While most people would agree that it’s the simplest way to buy a pre-owned car, there are some that think they can score a less expensive deal somewhere else. Nothing can equal the customer service we can provide you, even if you could get a less-expensive price elsewhere (most likely with a lot of miles and fewer guarantees on condition).

Some of the advantages of buying here are:

Convenient Hours – We’ve got extended hours of business to be ready when you need us.
Online Buying – You can shop online when you can’t make it to us.
Delivery of Your Vehicle – We can deliver. Just ask and we will see what we can do. (Exclusions apply)
Huge Selection – Most dealerships don’t have the same selection as we do.
CPO Vehicles – We offer Certified Pre-Owned cars for your peace of mind.
Straightforward Pricing – Our trained pricing professionals work hard to offer you fair prices.
History Reports of the Vehicle – Know the historical data of your new-to-you car.
Easy to Access Reviews – See what other buyers think.
Multiple Options for Financing – We offer multiple ways to get you financed.

Visit Bob Howard Acura for Used Cars

Bob Howard Acura welcomes you to browse our outstanding selection of used cars and SUVs for sale in Oklahoma City, OK. Buy, sell, trade, or even get pre-approved for financing, online or in-person. We deliver quality, convenience, and competitive pricing that you can believe in. Visit our Oklahoma City area used car lot today. We look forward to serving you.