According to CNN, Hondas are one of the most reliable cars sold on the market, which is most likely why you see so many on the road any time you’re out driving. Besides their clean appearance, reliability, and quick speed, there are several other factors to consider when looking for a used Honda. If you’re in the market for a “new-to-you” used Honda, take the following advice to the car lot. Trust me, and you’ll be happy you did when you’re the owner of a fresh ride.
Company Reputation
Considering that Honda initially made bicycles to get their names out to the public, it’s surprising that the Honda engine has won the most races in the famous Indy 500. This Japanese company has spent the past 74 years earning the respectable reputation they are well-known for today. It’s clear that Honda has a namesake to be proud of, but you must know the facts about the make of the car you’re looking at buying. You wouldn’t want a fast Honda Civic if you’re looking for a family car like the Honda Odyssey, so make sure you know the reputation of the specific vehicle you’re looking for before heading to the dealership.
The Car’s History
Any time you buy something used, you want to know where it came from and who owned it before you. Knowing where something came from is especially true regarding your vehicle. You wouldn’t want to drive your children around in a car that had been in several accidents and should have been totaled by the insurance company, and you don’t want to buy a car that has had five different owners in the past. When finding a used Honda, you want to look at the vehicle history report of the vehicle to see where the car has been and how many people have owned it. Remember, the fewer owners the vehicle has had in the past, the better!
Budget
We all wish we could have the car of our dreams, but unfortunately, most of us have to stick within a budget to buy a car. Before you even think about the kind of car you can picture yourself in, sit down and figure out your budget. Making a budget is also an excellent time to determine if you’re eligible for a loan if you will pay cash or have to finance the car. And remember, the point of doing this isn’t to stretch out every penny you can to get that car you’ve been wanting. A budget should center around how much money you can comfortably spend on a vehicle without putting yourself in a bind.
Take a Test Drive
Purchasing a car is a significant decision and one that you’ll have to stick with for quite a while. CarMax, who stresses the importance of test driving a vehicle before purchasing it, recommends asking yourself the following questions before making a final decision:
- Does it feel safe?
- Do you feel secure?
- Does it feel comfortable?
- Do you feel confident?
- How sensitive are the gas and brake?
- What is the gas mileage, and can you afford it?
- Does the car have all of the features you were interested in?
Buying a new car is a great decision, especially when you’ve done your research and are excited about the vehicle you’re getting. Remember to address your needs and budget, and don’t forget to know what kind of car you’re purchasing. Your next step is to find a reputable Honda dealer, and you should be well on your way to sitting in your brand-new used Honda!
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