Car Review
What to look for when buying a used car in Utah
There’s more to buying a pre-owned vehicle than kicking the tires and negotiating a price. KSL Cars explains how to pick a winner.
Kathleen Clove | May 9, 2024
Discussed in this article
“May I pay you extra for this car?” said no one ever. With any big ticket purchase, you want to be sure you’re getting the best deal for your money. So when you’re buying a vehicle — whether it’s your first set of wheels, a work truck or a sporty upgrade — your first question may be, “Should I buy a used car or new?”
Admittedly, that new car smell is hard to beat. But you can save thousands of dollars purchasing a previously owned vehicle, making it an excellent option for savvy shoppers. KSL Cars has tips on what to look for when buying a used car, so you’ll feel confident you’re getting the bargain you think you are.
Whether buying from a dealer or private seller, check the vehicle history report.
VIN for the win
Knowing how an automobile has been driven can give you a better idea of the shape it’s in. Has it been in any accidents? Were there regular service visits?
The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System collects and records data about cars based on the Vehicle Identification Number; that information is available to the public through private services. A list of NMVTIS-approved data providers is available on its site. A report tells you information such as:
Title history
Title issue date
Theft history
Flood/fire/salt water damage
Type of title: clean or salvage
A more detailed VIN history report is also available through providers such as Carfax; it may include the number of owners, reported accidents, service records and last odometer reading.
KSL Cars requires VINs to be included in its vehicle listings, so you can order a report yourself if the seller doesn’t provide one. Be wary of anyone suggesting you use their reporting service, especially if it’s not one you’re familiar with.
When you see the car in person, verify that the mileage and VIN matches the actual vehicle. The VIN is located either on the driver’s side dashboard or on the driver’s door.
Carefully inspect the vehicle, inside and out.
Is there a warranty?
Most new cars come with a warranty, typically three years/36,000 miles. It’s reassuring and can protect you if you purchased a rare lemon. But when you opt for pre-owned wheels, it’s likely the warranty has expired.
When buying a used car from a dealer, you may be offered a limited warranty through the dealership. Or, they may offer cars that are certified pre-owned. This means they have been inspected and repaired, usually by in-house mechanics.
Other vehicles may be labeled “as-is.” This doesn’t mean they have problems, simply that the dealership did not perform any work on them. Certified pre-owned vehicles typically cost more than non-certified ones.
Check it inside and out
Before purchasing any type of used car, look at it closely, paying attention to details. Is there any corrosion or rust? Are there any leak spots where it was parked? Is the oil clean? Ask questions, too. Has it been in any accidents? What needs fixing?
Take it for a spin to assess handling issues.
Does it pull to one side?
Are there any grinding, knocking or squealing sounds?
Do all the gauges, lights and moving parts work properly?
Are any warning lights on?
Do the air conditioner and heater work?
Even if the vehicle looks and sounds right, consider taking it to a certified mechanic for a more thorough inspection. They’ll verify all the engine parts are sound, hoses are properly connected and brake pads are appropriate. They’ll also get underneath to check for any leaks or holes.
Find the vehicle that meets your needs on KSL Cars.
Buying the car
When buying a used car from a private seller in Utah, you’ll be responsible for getting it registered in your name. Take the signed original title and the bill of sale to your local Department of Motor Vehicles. You’ll also need a completed Vehicle Application for Utah Title form to transfer ownership. At the DMV, you’ll pay all sales taxes owed and receive new license plates. When you buy from a dealer, they’ll likely take care of this step for you.
Find your deal
Where can you buy a used car? There are more than 45,000 previously owned vehicles on KSL Cars, making it the Mountain West’s go-to community for car and truck sales. Find listings for your perfect match, from a private seller or dealership. Set your desired parameters: model, year, listing type and price. Want it in sunburst orange? You can even search by preferred color.
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