Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Used Car in Ontario
Posted on March 26, 2024
While the general concept of buying a used car might appear consistent across the country, the specific details can vary significantly. If you're located in Ontario and considering purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, there are a few key things you need to know.
This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to help make your car-buying experience smooth and hassle-free.
How to Find the Right Used Car for Your Need
Before purchasing a used car, consider the following factors:
- Size: Evaluate how many passengers you need to accommodate and the cargo space required for groceries or larger items.
- Lifestyle: Assess whether the car suits city or rural driving, considering Ontario's diverse weather conditions, especially snow driving.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Define your preferences for the car's appearance to filter out options that don't align with your style.
- Fuel Economy: Consider the distance the car can cover on a single gas tank to manage fuel expenses.
- Safety: Verify that the chosen make and model have no outstanding safety defects or recalls. If it has recalls they should be fixed before you get the car.
- Mileage: Investigate the car's previous usage - the average Ontario car covers about 16,000 km per year.
- Cost: Establish a budget early on, factoring in additional expenses beyond the ticket price.
- Transmission Type: Determine your comfort level with either a standard or automatic transmission.
Guiding your used car search, these considerations ensure a decision that is both well-informed and tailored to your needs.
Understanding Your Budget
While having a specific savings amount simplifies the process, most Canadians go for financing. To gauge how much car loan you can afford, consider utilizing an online pre-approval service.
Getting pre-approved as your first step not only saves time and frustration but also provides clarity on your qualifying financing amount. It's a quick, free process, with no obligation to buy.
Finding Your Ideal Used Car in Ontario
When buying a used car, your options include private sellers, dealerships, or online retailers.
1. Private Sellers
Advantages lie in potentially lower prices, especially for older cars with high mileage. However, be cautious of the "buyer beware" scenario regarding potential mechanical issues. Unlike dealerships, private sellers may not address problems discovered after the sale.
2. Dealerships
Buying from a dealership ensures professional vehicle inspection and servicing, which provides confidence in your purchase. In case of post-sale mechanical problems, dealerships offer more recourse options.
3. Online Retailers
CarHub provides the advantages of traditional dealerships without the pressure of high-sales tactics. You can conveniently handle purchasing, financing, and completing your deal online.
Buying A Used Car from a Used Car Dealership in Ontario
Purchasing a used car from an Ontario dealership specializing in pre-owned vehicles like CarHub dealerships provides unbiased opinions on brands, as these dealerships are not affiliated with original equipment manufacturers. These lots often feature a diverse selection of makes and models.
Pros Of Buying a Used Car from a Dealership
Here are the pros of buying a used car from a dealership in Ontario:
- Dealer Expertise: In Ontario, there's a lower scam risk compared to private sellers, as dealers must inspect vehicles for previous damage before selling.
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Some Ontario dealerships offer CPO vehicles with low mileage, subjected to a standardized quality check, repairs, and reconditioning.
- Warranty Options: Dealerships often provide optional financial protection, covering repair bills and offering regular maintenance and servicing under warranty.
Cons of Buying from a Dealership in Ontario
Here are the cons of buying a used car from a dealership in Ontario:
- Limited Vehicle Options: Dealerships can only sell cars available on their lot, reducing exposure to variety compared to private shoppers.
- Pushy Sales Tactics: Some used car dealers may have a reputation for being pushy, emphasizing the importance of research to approach the dealership confidently.
- Warranty Limitations: While warranties prevent hefty repair bills, dealer warranties may require servicing only at their location.
CarHub can help you in your car-buying journey by offering a diverse inventory, a pressure-free experience, and flexible warranty options.
Tips and Steps for Buying a Used Car from A Dealer
If you're considering purchasing a used car, follow these steps for a smooth and informed experience:
1. Define Your Needs
Determine the type of used car that suits your needs, budget, and preferences. Research features such as make/model, price, fuel economy, safety rating, size, driving experience, and resale value.
2. Start the Search
Explore online listings, consumer reports, buying guides, public auctions, and local dealerships to find a used car that fits your criteria.
3. Evaluate the Value
Assess the fair value of the chosen car, considering factors like accident history, maintenance, and weather damage. CarHub offers free Carfax reports up front for any vehicle you may be considering.
4. Conduct a Thorough Test Drive
A 30-minute test drive is crucial to evaluate the car's performance. Test various actions, including braking, parking, cornering, accelerating, merging, and lane changes. Check the functionality of accessories.
5. Pre-Purchase Inspection
Inquire if you can make a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic to evaluate the cosmetic, mechanical, and safety conditions of the vehicle. This step ensures a comprehensive understanding of the car's condition.
6. Check the VIN
It provides specific details about a car, including the year, make, model, and manufacturing origin. This information is crucial when purchasing a used car, empowering you to make an informed and confident decision.
7. Review the Car's History
It provides specific details about a car, including the year, make, model, and manufacturing origin. When reviewing the car's history, this information is crucial in planning when to purchase a used car.
8. Ask Pertinent Questions
If you’re purchasing privately, inquire about the reason for selling, regular service and maintenance, warranty status, and request a VIN check. Arrange an independent inspection.
9. Negotiate Wisely
Understand the vehicle's value range, consider other influencing factors, and make a confident offer based on research and budget. Maintain emotional composure and be prepared to walk away if necessary.
10. Secure Appropriate Insurance
Check, review, and update your insurance coverage to match your new used car. You may need to present proof of insurance before concluding the sale.
11. Finalize the Sale
Be aware of provincial regulations governing the sale of used cars. Contact your provincial government for guidance to ensure a thorough and compliant transaction for both buyer and seller.
Purchasing a Car in Ontario? Talk to Us!
From determining your budget to exploring various options, and understanding the vehicle's history, each step contributes to a successful buying experience.
CarHub is here to redefine your car-buying journey. We prioritize transparency, quality, and your satisfaction. Explore our inventory or visit us today and discover the ideal used car that perfectly meets your needs. Contact us now.