Looking for a car in Oklahoma City? You might want to consider buying used! Buying a used car gives you a lot of bang for your buck. You can often find a nicer vehicle for less money than buying new, plus used cars depreciate slower than new ones. That means you won’t lose as much money when you eventually sell it.
This guide is designed to help OKC residents navigate the used car market and make smart buying decisions. Buying a used car involves research, inspection, and negotiation.
We’ll cover everything you need to know, including how to find reputable dealers selling used cars in OKC, how to inspect a vehicle before you buy, how to get financing, and what legal considerations to keep in mind.
Finding the Right Used Car Dealer in OKC
Once you’ve decided to buy used, the next step is finding a reputable dealership. You have several options in the OKC area.
Exploring Dealership Options
Here are a few places you can look for your next ride:
- Franchised Dealerships: These dealerships sell new cars, but they often sell certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles as well. CPO cars often come with warranties. Franchised dealerships tend to have higher prices, but you may have more peace of mind.
- Independent Dealerships: Independent dealerships can offer lower prices and a wider selection. You’ll want to do your homework to find a reputable dealer. Check online reviews and ask for references.
- Online Marketplaces and Private Sellers: You might get the lowest price this way, but it comes with risk. Make sure you inspect the car thoroughly and verify its history independently.
Evaluating Dealer Reputation
Before you buy, take some time to evaluate a dealer’s reputation.
- Check online reviews and ratings: Look for patterns in the feedback on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
- Visit the dealership: Is the place clean and well-organized? Do the staff members act professionally? Are they transparent and helpful?
- Ask for references: A reputable dealer should be willing to provide references from previous customers.
Inspecting a Used Car: What to Look For
Before you buy a used car, you’ll want to give it a thorough inspection. Here’s what to look for.
Visual Inspection: Inside and Out
Start with a good look at the car’s exterior. Check for rust, dents, scratches, and places where the paint doesn’t quite match (which could mean it’s been repaired after an accident). Take a look at the tires and make sure they have plenty of tread left. Turn on all the lights – headlights, taillights, turn signals – and make sure they’re working.
Move inside the car and look for wear and tear on the seats, carpets, and dashboard. Try out all the electronic features, like the radio, air conditioning, and power windows. Sniff around for any unusual smells like mold or mildew.
Mechanical Inspection: Under the Hood
Pop the hood and check the fluid levels – oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Make sure they’re all at the right level and look clean. Look for any signs of leaks. Start the engine and listen for any strange noises. Take a close look at the belts and hoses for cracks or wear.
If you can, take a look at the undercarriage for rust, damage, or leaks.
Test Drive: Putting It to the Test
Take the car for a test drive on different kinds of roads – city streets and highways – to see how it handles and performs. Try out the brakes to make sure they’re responsive and smooth. Pay attention to the steering wheel and make sure it’s not pulling to one side or has too much play in it.
Vehicle History Reports and Pre-Purchase Inspections
Before you make an offer on a used car, it’s smart to do your homework. Two important tools are vehicle history reports and pre-purchase inspections.
Vehicle History Reports
Companies like Carfax and AutoCheck compile vehicle history reports. These reports aim to tell you if the car has been in any accidents, if it has title issues (like being salvaged or flooded), if the odometer has been tampered with, and what its service record looks like. Getting one of these reports is a good idea before you commit to buying.
Keep in mind that these reports aren’t perfect. They might not include every accident or repair. It’s possible for a car to have damage that doesn’t show up on the report.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is when you pay a mechanic to look over the car before you buy it. A good mechanic can spot potential problems that you might not notice during a test drive.
You’ll want to negotiate who pays for the inspection and what happens if the mechanic finds something wrong. If you don’t have a mechanic you trust, ask around for recommendations for a reputable mechanic in the OKC area who can perform a PPI.
Financing and Insurance for Your Used Car in OKC
Okay, so you’ve found a few used cars in OKC that you like. Now, let’s talk money. Here’s the lowdown on financing and insurance.
Financing Options
You’ve got a few avenues to explore when it comes to financing a used car:
- Credit Unions: These often have competitive interest rates and flexible terms. It’s definitely worth checking out your local credit union.
- Banks: Banks can also provide financing, but their rates might be a bit higher than what you’d find at a credit union.
- Dealership Financing: Super convenient, right? But be careful! Always compare their rates to other options before you commit.
Pro Tip: Get pre-approved for a loan before you even start shopping. This way, you’ll know exactly how much you can spend and avoid falling in love with a car you can’t afford.
Insurance Considerations
Don’t forget about insurance! Here’s what you need to know in Oklahoma:
- Oklahoma Minimum Requirements: Brush up on the mandatory liability coverage requirements in Oklahoma. You gotta be legal!
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: These are worth considering, especially for newer or more valuable used cars. They’ll protect you from things like theft, vandalism, and damage from accidents.
The Golden Rule: Shop around for insurance! Get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best deal. Prices can vary wildly.
Negotiation and Closing the Deal
Once you’ve found a used car you like, the next step is negotiating the price and finalizing the purchase. Here’s how to do it:
- Research Fair Market Value: Use sites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to find out what the car is really worth.
- Make an Offer: Start with an offer lower than the asking price, especially if the inspection revealed problems. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the dealer won’t budge.
- Review the Paperwork: Before signing anything, read all the documents carefully. This includes the purchase agreement, warranty details, and financing terms.
- Understand Oklahoma Laws: Know your rights as a consumer in Oklahoma, including any “cooling-off” periods that might apply.
Wrapping Up
Buying a used car in OKC requires research, inspection, a plan for financing, and a willingness to negotiate. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding a great car, but patience and diligence are key. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
By using the information we’ve shared, you can make informed decisions and find a used car that’s reliable, fits your needs, and stays within your budget. Happy car hunting!