How To Buy a Used Car…The Right Way

Hello and Happy New Year, friends! Welcome to our first official post of 2026 here at eTags. We’re so glad you’ve joined us today, and we’re looking forward to a wonderful year ahead filled with helpful tips, how-tos, facts, and trends. Now, onto today’s subject: buying a cost-effective pre-owned car.

If you’re looking to land yourself a really good deal on a used car, you’re in good company. Lots of folks are in the market for a quality vehicle at a wallet-friendly price, and it’s a good idea to go into the search prepared. Here we will list a few key tips to keep in mind when starting the hunt for a reliable set of wheels that won’t break the bank.

Get to Know the Market

To begin, it’s smart to make yourself familiar with what’s available and what’s realistic for you.  The current demand for good, well-priced cars is pretty strong, so knowing what your standards are right off the bat is great way to start. Vehicles with great resell value and history include the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, as well as models made by Volvo and Subaru. These cars are long-lifers, and tend to do very well second hand for good reason.

Honing In

1. Set Your Criteria
– Clearly define what your basic and most important needs and wants are, such as: model year, mileage, price range.
– Include any optional features and extras that are of high value to you. Do you need innovative infotainment, driver assist systems? Maybe heated seats are at the top of your list. Write it down and make it part of your list.

2. Access Multiple Sources
– Scroll through online forums, peruse automotive sites, and stay up to date with local car dealership listings and sales. Holidays and end-of-year are big moments for low sticker prices.

– Check about newer forms of web vehicle showrooms such as Amazon or Hertz sales pages.
– Consider online ad platforms such as Facebook Marketplace for private sales.

Discerning Deals

Once you come across vehicle options with real potential, it’s a good idea to evaluate them thoroughly. Here are some elements to consider:

1. Vehicle History
– Without exception, always require a vehicle history report based on the VIN number. Platforms such as Carfax can help uncover accident history and service records that are of utmost importance.

2. Inspection and Test
– Inspect the car in person. If you’re going to buy it, you should be able to see it touch, it, peek under the hood and inside the trunk.
– Request a test drive. This helps you to assess that the car runs properly and also provides your required level comfort and performance.

3. Negotiate
– Before you start to haggle, know your stuff. Do a little research on the vehicle’s market value using super helpful tools like Kelley Blue Book or JD Power.
– Don’t be afraid to wheel and deal a little bit with sellers or dealerships; most sellers will expect this and will have already padded the sticker price so that there is room for adjustments.

Financing and Fees

Whether you are buying from a dealership or through private sale, here are some points to consider when it comes to payments and costs.

1. Loans
– Decide if you’ll be financing your purchase through a bank, credit union, or directly through the dealership.
– Take some time to compare interest rates and terms before accepting the first option.

2. Insurance
– Insurance coverage is another area where you ought to compare quotes. Often, a little research can go a long way in securing you the best deal.

3. Fees
– Consider the add-ons that are not part of the car cost itself. This includes fees for registration, title transfer, taxes, and potential dealership charges. These should all factor into your final budget number.

Getting it Done

1. Documents
– Make sure all paperwork is in order, including transfer of title and bill of sale. No vehicle can pass ownership without an official certificate of title that has been signed over to the buyer. In some states, an emissions test will need to be performed or a recent passing test will need to be provided.

And there you have them: the top tips for buying a used car. We hope you’ve found this handy. And remember, for all your title and tag needs, head on over to our homepage and let us assist you with transfers, renewals, replacements, and more. Because as always, at eTags, we’re here to help!