Finding the right car to be the subject of our Project Porsche video series can be a daunting task. Even with a set budget and a clear set of goals, sometimes it can be hard keeping emotions in check. Especially when there are a lot of good deals to be found.
In the second episode of Project Porsche, Roman goes Porsche 928 and 911 shopping.
How often do impulse buying decisions lead to costly mistakes? Here are a handful of tips to keep in mind when shopping for a used car.
1. Set the maximum amount you are willing to pay for a car and stick to it.This will prevent you from getting in over your head when buying a car.
2. Research which cars will suit your needs and create a list of desirable cars that fit your budget.
3. Check prices, reviews, forums, and posted service bulletins.
4. Locate used cars for sale in your area. If you are willing to travel outside of certain range, factor in the cost of travel and transportation into your budget.
5. Use the VIN number to check the vehicle’s history report before completing the sale. The following resources are easy ways to see if the car carries a salvage title or been involved in an insurance claim: CarFax, VINcheckpro.com, National Insurance Crime Bureau, and National Motor Vehicle Title Information Service.
6. Test drive the car, listen for unusual noises, ask a lot of questions, and do a close visual inspection. Bringing along a friend is also helpful because a second pair of eyes may catch something you missed.
7. Have the car inspected by an independent garage. Getting the car up on a lift can be revealing.
8. Negotiate the best deal that is fair to both parties. Remember to stay within your budget and be prepared to walk away if the price is not satisfactory.
