Worried about buying a used car? Check out these 5 fears people have when buying a used vehicle, and how picking the right kind of dealership can help mitigate those fears.
Buying a used car is stressful. There are a lot of fears involved in forking over a ton of cash for something you will rely heavily on. We address some of the fears people typically have when buying a pre-owned vehicle, and how independent used car dealers, typically have the solutions to these common worries:Getting the runaround, screwed, or underestimated
Everyone has this initial fear when stepping into a dealership, especially for women, unfortunately. There have been too many horror stories, personal or otherwise of realizing you paid WAY more than you should have when buying a used car. Not to mention all those “special” add ons that usually should come standard. When you’re visiting a bigger more corporately owned dealership you face this fear more than with more locally owned dealerships, considering they are more concerned with your happiness and safety than simply the bottom line.
Problems in the (near) Future
This one is personal: After purchasing my first used car I was thrilled with not only myself for getting the “perfect” car, but that I got it for a great deal. Fast forward two weeks later and I suddenly realized things like my air conditioner no longer worked, due to a crack that was terribly mended. Again, when buying a used car from an independent dealership you get comprehensive care, full look-overs and a more honest experience. Don’t make my mistake and get caught in the Colorado traffic & heat with no air conditioning.
Lack of Flexibility
Rule #1, never settle for sticker price, that’s just the golden rule with buying from a dealership. Unfortunately, when it comes to buying a used car from a franchised dealership, they operate under a specific manufacturer, which means the franchise must follow the manufacturer’s policies and procedures, including the price! Doing your car shopping with independent dealers ensures you can work on your price for what the car is worth - not what the dealer tells you it’s worth.Lack of Variety
Independent used car dealerships offer a ton more variety than franchised dealerships. Not only do FD’s limit and stop selling older vehicles, they are often limited to only one or very few car brands. If you’re not exactly sure about the car you want, and you want all options available to you, independent is the way to go.
Ability to Finance, Low Credit and Other Money-Related Worries
While independent dealers sometimes have higher interest rates, they are more likely to offer financing to people with less-than-excellent credit. You're more likely to have some flexibility with your credit at an independent dealer than a franchised one.
If you’re looking into buying a used car, check out some of the top rated independent dealers below to get your car-buying-journey started:
Street Smart Auto Brokers 307 E Arvada St., Colorado Springs Rating - 4.8/5
Street Smart Auto Brokers should be your first (and most likely last) stop when buying a used car. With rave reviews all over, SSAB aims to provide the best service, selection and prices around. They hone in on personal care and make sure you, the car buyer, gets the best and easiest experience possible. You can do some online window shopping through their inventory, or schedule a test drive. Also, unlike a few independent dealers around, they have a team of qualified technicians to provide amazing car repair services to cap off their great customer service.
Highline Auto 6490 Leetsdale Dr., Denver Rating - 3.8/5
Founded on trust, integrity, and respect, Highline Auto offers great values and awesome service. This is a great option to check out if you're looking to buy a used car. They have a large variety of vehicles so whatever you could be looking for, they probably have. Even if you’re not exactly sure what you want, their team of professionals are happy to help you along your journey.
Midtown Motors 2689 S. Broadway, Denver Rating - 3.4/5
Large variety with great prices. Midtown motors is a great place for buying a used car. Especially if you’re looking for a starter car or something to just help you get from A to B. Their service is super helpful and insightful, making your used car buying experience that much easier.
