Buying a used car is a sensible option for most people who cannot afford one. You can get a good used car for a fraction of the cost of a new car without making significant monthly payments for years before you own it. However, you need to ensure the deal isn't too good to be true by knowing what to look for and where you should buy used cars.

In this article from Delaware Title Loans, Inc., you can learn where to buy a used car to get the best deal on an affordable vehicle without getting scammed. We will also explain how those who own their car outright can use its title as collateral for a title loan to get emergency cash.

Where To Buy Used Cars In The United States

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 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. Approved Car Dealers

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. 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 Title Loan With A Used Car?

If you purchase the car outright (i.e., you haven't financed the vehicle), you can get a title loan from us at Delaware Title Loans, Inc. using your newly bought vehicle’s car title. This type of loan lets you borrow money based on the value of your vehicle rather than your creditworthiness. While your credit score may still be checked, you can still get approved with bad credit if you own your vehicle outright. 

The following are the required items we will need to check for car title loan approval:

• Your driver’s license or other state-issued identification
• Your lien-free car title in your name
• Your vehicle for a quick inspection

At Delaware Title Loans, Inc., we keep the process simple and straightforward so that you can receive between $300 and $15,000 as soon as possible. You can start by completing our online form, talking to one of our loan representatives on the phone, or meeting us face-to-face. You can receive your money either the same day or the next business day.

Get A Car Title Loan From Delaware Title Loans, Inc. Now!

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.