Steps to Purchase a Pre-Owned Vehicle

We’re proud that we’re widely known as Aberdeen, MD used car dealers because it means we have a reputation as trustworthy and experienced automotive experts. Using our expertise, the team at Cook Chrysler Dodge RAM compiled a guide that will help you purchase a pre-owned vehicle in a stress- and hassle-free manner.

Create a Budget

Before you start shopping for a used car, it’s advisable to create a budget for your upcoming purchase. There are two “rules” that can help you create a budget. The first is the 10 – 20 percent rule. That guideline suggests that you dedicate no more than 10 – 20 percent of your take-home pay to the sum of your transportation expenses, which include your monthly loan payments, fuel costs, and others.

The second rule is the 20/4/10 guideline. This rule advises you to put at least 10 percent down, finance the remainder of the purchase price over four years or less, and reserve no more than 10 percent of your net pay to cover your transportation costs. You can get started on your budget by using our car payment calculator.

Conduct Research

As you look through our pre-owned vehicles, you’ll see that our inventory includes a variety of makes and models. To choose the vehicle that will fit your budget and support your lifestyle the best, you should conduct research online. You can also give our support staff a call and they can help you narrow down your options.

Review Your Credit Report

A few months before you start car shopping, look over your credit report. If you notice any errors that are dragging your credit score down, correct them. It can take weeks for corrections to drive up your score, so don’t wait until the last minute to review your credit report and address mistakes.

Go for a Test Drive

Arguably the most important thing you should do prior to making an offer on an automobile is to take the car for a road test. Going for a test drive is the only way you can determine if a given vehicle is the right choice for you.

Get Pre-Qualified in Aberdeen, MD

Word to the wise, applying for RAM financing on website before you start shopping is a pro move. Then, you can shop for a pre-owned vehicle at our location later today. Stop by or give us a call today!