Is it safe to buy a rental car?
When you are considering buying a used vehicle, it is important to cover all of your bases and take all options into consideration. Most people don’t even think about the buy a rental car option. It is an option with many pros and cons and it is worth it to factor them into your used car purchase decision. Rental car purchase prosFirst things first, as a used buyer you know where this car is coming from. Chances are the car has been kept clean and well maintained during its life as a rental. Any rental service that sells their cars should be able to offer you maintenance records to back that up. In fact it should be insisted upon to ensure that the car has been properly cared for. Pricing is another attractive factor if you want to purchase a rental car. Many of the cars rental agencies will offer for sale are less than a year old and have less than 25,000 miles on them. Do not be suspect when you see a newer model for sale, it does not necessarily indicate that the vehicle is problematic. Rental companies are able to purchase their vehicle at the bare minimum fleet pricing, enabling them to re-sell at very competitive prices. Another pro is the possibility of a warranty still intact with a purchase through a rental car company. Because they generally sell them within a year of purchase and at a reasonable mileage, there is a good chance that there will still be some time left on the manufacturers warranty. Giving the new owner a little peace of mind, especially when you consider the cons of purchasing a rental car. Rental car purchase consAnyone who has rented a car has probably heard this joke, “What’s the difference between a rental car and a 4X4? A rental car can go anywhere!” It’s funny when you rent a car, but when you are looking to buy a rental car suddenly it’s not so funny anymore. This being the biggest con of them all, people are hard on rental cars. The rental companies have no idea what the car actually endures while in the care of the individuals it rents to. Of course they will assure you that the car was not mistreated, but again, anyone who has rented a car knows the kind of abuse they can take. Generally the rental agencies will inspect the car upon its return to their lot to ensure that there has been no damage. However what is reported at that point is largely cosmetic, and while aesthetics are important, it’s what’s inside that really counts. If you are considering purchasing a rental car, be sure to take it to an outside, unaffiliated mechanic for a through inspection to ensure that the vehicle has not suffered mechanically at the hands of an thoughtless renter. As far as cons go, the vast unknown is really the one to worry about. While cosmetic issues are important, mechanical soundness is truly the bottom line with any used car purchase. Bottom line a good optionWhen purchasing a used vehicle, the rental agencies offer a viable option for purchase. Contrary to popular belief previous rental cars can be a great investment for anyone looking for a suitable used vehicle. Having access to maintenance records is a huge plus, and all things considered every vehicle they buy is the rental companies bread and butter. It is good business sense for them to keep them in tip top working order. <b>About the Author:</b> My name is Paige Filler and I'm a creative writer with a love of all things that go vroom. I do my homework to bring thought and innovation into everything I write about the auto industry. You can find more of my stuff at <a href="http://www.cash4usedcars.com/" target="blank">Cash 4 Used Cars</a>, and <a href="http://blog.cash4usedcars.com/" target="blank"> this blog.</a>
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Your Mechanic Can Be a Valuable Asset When Purchasing A Used Car
Car dealers are not particularly well liked, and knowing as many of them as I do, I can understand why that might be the case. I run an import shop in Florida that specializes in late model luxury imports. I’ve been in business for quite some time, and I have heard plenty of horror stories from customers regarding other dealerships. In my opinion, I think the majority of car dealerships one will encounter are reputable, by and large. I say “by and large” because some dealers I know use nickel and dime methods to maximize their profits, which I disagree with. Personally, I would rather give the customer a quality auto at a fair price and consequently gain a lifetime customer, but that’s a topic for another article. One of the more recent horror stories I heard involved someone who had purchased a vehicle that was leaking oil. For those of you that know anything about cars, you know that this is nothing to be taken lightly. The customer was assured by the dealership that this older, yet low mileage used car was in pristine condition. Here’s where it gets interesting… Before the sale, the customer asked if she could have the car inspected by her mechanic. The dealership did everything they possibly could to keep that from happening, and succeeded. They told her that they would have their own mechanics do a “twenty point inspection” which would save her the time and expense of having her mechanic take a look. Unbelievable! Since the customer parked her car on a busy street where there were already several oil spots, she never noticed the leaking until after her ridiculously short thirty day warranty was up. Her mechanic would have spotted an oil leak the minute he had the car up on the rack. As disheartening as this story is, there is a valuable lesson to be learned here. Car buyers, unless they are dealing with a dealer they are familiar with and whom they trust, should seriously consider having a mechanic check out any used car they are interested in (preferrably the local certified manufacturer dealer of the automobile make they are considering). I have had several first time customers ask me if they can have the car independently inspected and I am always happy to oblige. Take my word for it, the only dealers who would frown upon independent inspections are those who have something to hide. To learn more visit Spanos Imports of Daytona Florida visit http://www.spanosimports.com/
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Buying A Used Car? Know The Basics
If you feel purchasing a new car is tricky, then buying a second hand car can be quite trickier. But don’t fret just yet–with these guidelines to keep you on track, that used car could be one of the sweetest deals you’ve ever had. Where to Look Snoop around. It pays to be on the lookout for owners wanting to shift to a newer model, and thus wanting to sell the car of your dreams. This is where your friends and family come in. Aside from referrals, they could more or less ensure that the price is reasonable and the car’s ownership history is satisfactory. Asking the Right Questions Why are the owners letting the car go? Make sure that they are not selling due to any major problems. How long have they owned the car? Given proper maintenance, a five to seven year-old car would generally be in good condition. What repairs have been done, or are currently needed? How’s the mileage? The lower the mileage, the better. However, a used car with more miles could be satisfactory, too. In this case, ask about the vehicle’s use. Was it a family car limited to city driving? Does the car come with a warranty? Take Note of the following: Body rust or holes are difficult to repair. A body panel rusting through is to be replaced. Different paint shades from one panel to another, peeling and cracked paint, or smudges on other car part indicates a poor re-paint job, which needs to be re-done. Threadbare tires, chipped or cracked glass, the electrical work and what’s beneath the hood should be given proper attention, too. Going Out for a Test Drive If it’s a manual car, the clutch shouldn’t slip. If the clutch slips, instead of being steady as it accelerates, the motor will be revved up as when using neutral. If this happens get yourself a new clutch! Is the exhaust not chugging out excess smoke and noise? The car may need some good motor repair, or some of the exhaust system parts replaced. Do the pothole test. Overly shaky rides could indicate a suspension problem, an alignment problem and or a tire problem. Always have a trusted mechanic or a car aficionado friend to thoroughly go over the car with you. The Turn Over, at Last The number of previous owners, registration details, applicable taxes, and insurance papers - should all be properly documented. With the paperwork done and the payment terms agreed upon, you’re ready to hit the road, and enjoy the ride! Gregory Ashton, your resident automobile enthusiast, bringing to you over 20 years of vehicular passion, and expertise; presents for your approval his insider secrets on selecting, buying, and maintianing the car that is ideal for you. <a href="http://www.best-car-buying-tips.com" title="http://www.best-car-buying-tips.com" target="_blank">http://www.best-car-buying-tips.com</a>
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