If you’ve decided to buy a used car, you have already made a smart decision. You can get a car that’s almost as good as a brand new one without suffering the depreciation that kills new car buyers the moment they drive out of the showroom.

Step 1: Starting out

Buying a used car means you can afford a big car at the price of a new small car. With bigger bargains available for the smart shopper, the used car market is definitely worth a dekho before you indulge in a brand new car. That said used cars are also more reliable these days with some of them still covered under factory warranty. Apart from that most carmakers now sell certified used cars which include a warranty.

Step 2: Finding the right used car.

You will already have in mind the car you want but its good to stop and rethink about the pros and cons of the car your about to spend on. Make sure your choice isn’t exceeding your budget and it fits your need. While buying a used car it’s also a good idea to stretch your horizons. For e.g.: if your looking for a Hyundai Santro you can also look at the Maruti Zen, or the Wagon R. These were built for the same market but you can find them at lower prices.

Step 3: Right price for the right car.

There are many factors on which the cost of a used car is based like its condition, mileage, reliability, performance and service history. If the car is a popular model you will be bound to shell out more than you will shell out for a less popular model. Make sure you find out the market price for the car and don’t end up paying too much for it no matter how good the condition is.

Step 4: Research your prospective used car

A very important step in getting a good used car deal is to get a history report of the car. Check whatever service history that the car has. Also have a close look on the insurance details for any major accident covered. If you’re not sure about the mechanicals taking a good mechanic with you to get the vehicle inspected is definitely a good idea.

Step 5: Where to find used cars

The most common places to buy a used car are Private parties, used car dealerships or used car lots.You can find ads put up by private parties in newspaper classifieds, websites like www.ZigWheels.com as well as in magazines.The next place to look for is at dealerships and used car lots. Many manufacturers have come up with used car dealerships. Maruti for e.g. has True Value which only sells used Maruti cars. They might be more expensive than your average dealership but they also offer warranties and other services like accident-free cars. Similarly you have other dealerships like Automart India and FirstChoice India who also sell various used cars with warranties. You also get the advantage of getting finance through these dealerships if at all you need one.

Step 6: Test driving a used car.

Used car shopping involves a lot of inspection to determine its condition. Here are some of the things to check while out on a test drive.

1. Acceleration from rest should be clean without any hiccups.
2. Engine Noise
3. Hill climbing ability
4. Braking
5. Cornering
6. Suspension
7. Rattles and Squeaks

On a test drive take your time and try to stimulate your normal driving patterns. Find out how the car behaves in varied conditions as you wouldn't want to be surprised after the purchase about the car not performing right.

Step 7: Negotiating the deal

Whether you're dealing with a private party or a dealer make sure you let them know that you’re ready to strike the deal on the spot, but we need to rework the price. You need to have a valid argument about why the price is too high at the same time putting up an acceptable offer. Walk out in case you’re not comfortable with the deal and avoid falling for offers such as Teflon coating or accessories such as mudflaps which the dealer might chip in to distract you.

Step 8: Closing the deal

Once the deal is closed you still have to go through the finance and insurance steps. Make sure all the process regarding the transfer of ownership is completed and that the car is still insured before you drive away.

Finally inspect the car before you take delivery and make sure all the repair work if needed has been carried out. Once all done you’re ready to drive off in your “New Used Car”. Happy driving.