Buying a used car can save you a lot of money. You get a solid vehicle without the high cost of a brand-new one—and without long-term payments. But before you rush into a deal that seems too good to be true, it’s important to know where you can buy used cars and what red flags to watch out for.
In this guide from Delaware Title Loans, Inc., we’ll show you the best places to buy used cars and how, if you own the car outright, you can use it to get a car title loan when you need emergency cash.
Best Places To Buy Used Cars In The U.S.
Looking to buy a used car in the United States? The good news is you will have a lot of options available to you where you can find a good used car for cheap. You can buy a used car in the US from certified dealerships as well as people looking to sell their cars online. Learn about these options to determine the best choice for you when buying a used car.
There are three main places to buy used cars in the US. These are as follows:
1. Local Independent Car Dealers
Local independent dealers can offer exclusive deals on cheap used cars that you won't find anywhere else. However, it's crucial to do your due diligence before parting with your money. Trust is key in this situation, so it's wise to ask around and check reviews before making a visit. This way, you can avoid falling for promises that may not be fulfilled and make a more informed decision.
When buying from a local dealer, you should also prepare to ask questions to ensure you are getting a good car. Before purchasing it, inquire about the vehicle’s service history, mileage, and any issues.
2. Certified or Approved Car Dealerships
Approved dealers are more scrupulous since their used vehicles must meet standards and have undergone various checks to guarantee they're legitimate and trustworthy. They've committed to clearly explaining all the details about their vehicles, including their histories and the buying process.
That said, you should still check reviews on third-party sites to get an accurate picture of the dealer's trustworthiness from past customers.
3. Online Used Car Websites
There are tons of used car sites, but that doesn't mean they're all suitable for you. Always prioritize those with high-quality photos, easy-to-navigate interfaces, and detailed accounts of the car’s service history and current condition. Different sites will offer different advantages for people looking for used cars, with some sites offering cheaper cars, classic cars, or auctions.
Here are a few used car websites that we recommend for 2024:
- Carvana
- CarGurus
- Autotrader
- Hemmings
- CarsDirect
- Cars & Bids
- Autolist
- AutoTempest
Should You Buy A Used Car From A Private Seller?
Another place to buy a used car is through private sellers on online marketplaces, such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. While plenty of people on these sites have good intentions when selling their cars, buying a car in these places can be risky. You may be able to get a used vehicle at a cheaper price through this method, but there may be a reason.
There is less of a process involved in vetting the used car to make sure it’s still in good enough condition to drive. While a car may look good on the outside, it’s worthless if the parts in the interior don’t work properly.
We recommend buying a car from a private seller with a history of selling used cars. Before buying a used car from them, check to see if anyone else has bought from them and whether they were satisfied with their purchase.
What Should You Look For When Buying A Used Car?
No matter where you purchase a used car, there are a few things you need to look out for. You should only buy a used car if you have information on its condition, mileage, and service history. These are essential to knowing whether the used car is worth what you’re paying, will last as long as you need, and can accomplish what you need it to.
The following are some things to look out for when buying a used car:
- Service History: Every car has a unique history that led it to this point. You should request a car’s service history before buying it so you can know what problems it has had in the past and if there are any red flags before making your purchase.
- Safety Checks: Test the horn, brakes, and lights to guarantee proper working condition. Also, remember to check the tire tread and brakes.
- Mileage: High car mileage isn't necessarily a bad thing, but they tend to be worth less than those with lower mileage. They also won’t last as long for those looking for a long-term option. Make sure the price is fair based on the car’s mileage before buying.
- Test Drive: Always test drive the vehicle before you buy it. This will rule out any potential issues and ensure you like how it handles.
Can You Get A Car Title Loan With A Used Car?
Yes, if you buy a used car outright (meaning it’s fully paid for and not financed), you can use the vehicle’s title to get a car title loan.
At Delaware Title Loans, Inc., we offer fast loans using your lien-free car title as collateral. That means your credit doesn’t have to be perfect. The value of your vehicle helps determine how much money you can borrow.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A driver’s license or state-issued ID
- The car title in your name, with no liens
- The vehicle for a quick inspection
You could qualify for anywhere between $300 and $15,000, and receive the money the same day or the next business day.
Why Choose A Car Title Loan?
If you find yourself needing quick cash—for medical bills, urgent repairs, or catching up on payments—a car title loan can be a fast solution without giving up your vehicle. Just be sure to only borrow what you can repay and understand the loan terms.
Start the process by filling out our online form, then talk to a representative to complete your request.
Start Your Title Loan Application Today
You can buy a used car in the United States from local independent dealerships, approved national dealerships, and online used car dealers. However, you must ensure any used car you purchase is still operational to avoid spending money on a scam.
If you buy a used car outright, you can use the vehicle’s value to get a title loan from Delaware Title Loans, Inc. to handle an urgent financial emergency. Start the process by filling out our online inquiry form and speaking to one of our loan associates over the phone to discuss the car title loan approval process.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.
