The sheer convenience of owning a car is unparalleled. It also becomes a comfortable mode of transport for one’s family members and does away with dependence on public transport. However, buying a first-hand car may cause a financial strain, particularly in the initial stages. An effective solution is to buy a pre-owned car, which is more reasonably priced than a new one. Here are some tips to get deals on pre-owned cars this Black Friday:

Research thoroughly on the available deals and cars
The first step is to carry out extensive research on the available car deals and the type of car one is looking for. Thus, one should understand one’s car requirements based on factors such as the number of family members and the possibility and frequency of travel beyond city limits or to rough terrains. Such factors can help finalize a car of the right size, brand, and model. Next, based on this decision, one should look for local car dealers offering pre-owned cars of the brand and model one requires.

Set a definite budget range and limit
The next step is to set a specific budget range and limit vis-a-vis the original price of the car and the standard price reduction while buying pre-owned cars. It is important not to set this budget range too low, as quality is typically compromised considerably in such cases. This budget range should be based on factors like one’s current income, savings, expectations of an increase in income, car requirements, and features to be included. It is best not to consider the possible Black Friday deals at this stage, as different dealers may offer varying deals. This factor should be considered only after one checks out all the available deals.

Browse vehicle history information
Black Friday is characterized by a host of offers by various dealers; hence, it is all the more important to ensure that one buys a pre-owned car only from trusted sources. For this reason, one should browse vehicle history information, including key factors like vehicle identification number, ownership history, and reports of any accidents or vehicle damage due to a calamity. Reluctance on the part of the seller to reveal these details is a sign that one should look for other dealers.

Check out any trade-in options for the car
If one already owns a car and wishes to sell it off, the best option is to check with the dealer if they would accept a trade-in. A trade-in can significantly reduce the cost of one’s pre-owned car; this cost reduction, in addition to the existing Black Friday offer, can facilitate an excellent deal for the buyer.

Physically inspect the used car in broad daylight
Although many showrooms showcasing pre-owned cars are well-lit, they may try to hide the car’s imperfections under bright lights. Therefore, inspecting a second-hand car in broad daylight is important to detect any defects in the vehicle, such as scratches, dents, broken headlights, and worn-out paint. Such issues should be promptly reported to the dealer, who should carry out the required repairs before the car is sold.

Get the car professionally checked
While an examination of the car can help identify outward issues, a car mechanic can detect any problems with its internal components and mechanisms. Hence, it is a good idea to have a car mechanic thoroughly examine the pre-owned car before one decides to buy it.

Check the car’s service records
The best pre-owned car deal one can avail of during shopping seasons like Black Friday is a car that has been maintained well over the years. Hence, it is important to request the dealer to provide details on when the car was last serviced and how frequently it had been serviced in the past. A well-serviced car significantly reduces long-term maintenance costs and is much smoother on the road than those that have been inconsistently serviced.

Check the vehicle’s insurance records
A glance at all insurance claims made on the pre-owned can help one understand all the mishaps and accidents that have taken place with the vehicle. Such information is typically available at the service center and should be checked by buyers.

Take long test drives
A long test drive is essential to detect any issues that crop up with the pre-owned car when one drives it. These issues may often not be apparent when the vehicle is stationary. One may even ask their friends or a mechanic to drive the car and ask for their opinion before buying it.

Verify the credibility of the car dealer
There is no dearth of deals and offers on shopping seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Therefore, it is particularly important to verify a car dealer’s credibility while buying a car during this time. It helps to check out online reviews of the dealer and inquire with family members and friends before shortlisting a used car offered by the dealer.

Certain dealers like Arnold Clark, who offer perennial deals on used cars, may come up with even more lucrative offers during the shopping season. The key to availing of the best Black Friday 2023 used car deals is to research available deals, understand one’s requirements, check the car thoroughly, and avoid any fraudulent dealers.