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As you read about pre-owned vehicles, you’ll learn: Why you should consider buying a used vehicle instead of a new one. How purchasing a used car helps you make the most of your investment. When you decide that it’s time to buy a vehicle, you have to choose between purchasing a new or used car. Your first instinct may be to buy a new vehicle, but purchasing a pre-owned car is a better option for many people. If you’re in the market for a new car, here are four reasons to look for a used vehicle instead of a brand new one. 1. The Price Purchasing a vehicle is a huge investment. Many people just can’t afford the hefty price tag that comes with many new cars. Used vehicles may have a few miles on them, but they also come with a significantly reduced cost. While a new vehicle may be out of your budget, a used one may be well within your price range, and there are still financing options available for pre-owned cars. Buying a used vehicle doesn’t mean you have to compromise on desired features, either. Most used cars in dealerships are only a few years old, so they still offer many of the features you want to make your ride a true home away from home. You can still have high-tech features such as navigation and Bluetooth without paying the full price. 2. The Dependability Just because a used vehicle costs less than a new one doesn’t mean that it is any less dependable. Most car brands strive to create models that will last for hundreds of thousands of miles, so you can get years of use out of vehicles that several people have previously owned. Every used car on a dealership’s lot goes through extensive testing to ensure it still runs reliably. 3. The Peace of Mind You might want to look for used cars sold by people in your community, but it’s a much better idea to buy from a certified dealership. Because dealerships test used cars extensively before putting them on the lot for sale, you know the vehicles you are looking at are reliable. You never have to worry about being sold a car that will have problems immediately after leaving the lot. You may even find a vehicle that is still under the original warranty! 4. The Decreased Depreciation It’s no secret that used cars are less expensive than their new counterparts. What you may not know is that new and used vehicles also have different depreciation rates. The seconds you drive a new car off the lot, it loses up to 40% of its resale value. This means that if you decide to sell the car for any reason, you won’t get nearly the amount of money back that you invested originally. Used cars, on the other hand, depreciate much more slowly. Because it’s already lost a lot of value, it won’t lose much when you drive it off the lot. The vehicle retains its value, so you can sell it for what you paid for it if you need to. This keeps your initial investment strong, so you get the most of the money you spent. By letting a previous owner take the depreciation hit, you can keep your investment strong. Find the Best Used Cars for Sale at Cactus Used Cars in Tucson When you decide that buying a used car is the right option for you, it’s time to visit a certified dealership. If you live in Tucson, Arizona, or the surrounding area, you can find a huge selection of certified pre-owned vehicles at Cactus Auto. Our dealership is conveniently located just off of Interstate 10 near the intersection of Romero Road and West Prince Road. Visit us today to browse our vast inventory of used cars, trucks, and SUVs to find the perfect vehicle for you.

Finding the Best Used Van There are some situations in life that just seem to require a van. There’s something nice about getting all of the height and room of a larger SUV while still enjoying a driving experience that feels more relaxed and familiar. These vehicles are perfect for families, road trips, and many different kinds of jobs. No matter why you’ve decided that a van is the best vehicle for you, choosing a pre-owned van instead of a new one can help you save a lot of money when you buy your vehicle. What To Look for in a Van Once you’ve started looking into vans, you probably already have a pretty good idea of what sets these vehicles apart from other options. Still, not all vans are the same. Compare your options to make sure you’re getting the exact combination of reliability, size, value, and performance that fit your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions at the dealership as you weigh your options, and you can also find great information by searching online. We usually recommend thinking about all four of the following factors. Reliability Whether you’re using the van to transport your family or move a lot of gear, it’s especially important to know you can count on your vehicle. If you’re using your vehicle for work, it’s important to know that you can get yourself and all of your cargo where it needs to go. If you’re using your vehicle to transport your family, you’ll be a lot more comfortable knowing that you won’t get stuck on the side of the road with a full load of kids. Size By the time you’re on the lot inspecting different kinds of vans, you’ve already realized that size matters. Still, some vans are even larger than others. It’s also important to think about how you’ll use the space inside of your van. Is it more important to you that the rear seat is comfortable enough for adult passengers, or are you primarily concerned with storage options? Value Let’s face it; money is important when you’re buying a van. Our vehicles are some of the most expensive purchases we make in our entire lives, so it can help a lot when choosing one that offers an especially great value. One of the best ways to save money on a van is by getting a used one instead of a new one. By giving up the new car smell, you’re putting all of your money toward features and performance. Maintenance Costs You can continue saving money throughout the entire life of your vehicle if you choose the right one. Look into the cost of maintenance of some of the different used vans on the lot. You’ll learn which have better fuel efficiency, which are less expensive to insure and cost the least to maintain. Understanding Your Needs for a Pre-Owned Van Once you know which features to look for, think about how they’ll make a difference in your life. How will you use the van on a daily basis? Are there any particular features or capabilities you absolutely can’t live without? Family Life Most people who want to buy a used minivan are doing it for their families. In this case, seating and safety will be especially important. Do you have enough space for all of the kids, and will they be safe on the road? Used Vans for Work If you’re buying a used van for your job, other things might be more important. Do the seats fold down easily to provide extra storage? Is the van easy to drive while you’re making deliveries and rugged enough to handle all of your job sites? Best Pre-Owned Vans for Travel The minivan is the ultimate road trip vehicle. If this is what you have in mind, you’ll need plenty of space for your traveling companions as well as all of their gear. Consider buying a used minivan with an all-wheel drive if you plan on making excursions into the mountains or other snowy locations. Where to Buy a Used Van The best way to get a good deal on a used car is to be mindful of where you buy it. Choose a “buy here pay here” used car dealership with an excellent reputation and strong community ties. This will help you be more confident that they have your best interests at heart. Best Pre-Owned Vans for Sale in Tucson, AZ Here at Cactus Auto Sales, the $500 Down Payment Dealership, we’ve been serving Tucson residents and the surrounding areas for years. As an independent used car dealership, we offer used vans of all makes and models, with only $500 down and no credit check. Stop by today to explore our selection, and we’ll help you find the right fit for your family.

Finding the Best Used SUV Buying a pre-owned SUV is one of the best ways to save money on your roomy, functional vehicle. It can also be slightly more complicated than buying a new SUV, especially depending on where and how you shop. If you know what you’re doing and what to expect, though, you might find that buying a used SUV is a lot easier than you expected. If you follow the seven tips below, you’re much more likely to have a successful buying experience. 1 – Decide Your Budget for a Pre-Owned SUV The biggest reason to buy a used car instead of a new one is that you can save a lot of money. If finding a vehicle you can afford is important to you, then you should make sure you’re setting a responsible budget for yourself. After you set your budget, make sure you stick to it once you get to the lot. Think about the absolute most you can afford to pay for a used SUV, and don’t go above that number no matter what. Consider the cost of ownership (such as insurance, gas, and maintenance) while you’re setting the budget. 2 – Find the Best Used SUV for Your Needs Once you know what your budget is, you’ll be more prepared to determine which types of used SUVs normally fall within that budget. Working within your means, think about the features and capabilities that are important to you. For example, you may want to ask yourself the following questions as you prepare to buy a used SUV: Do you want something with an all-wheel drive for your regular road trips to the mountains? How many seats do you need in your pre-owned SUV? Will you require a lot of cargo space to haul all of your gear around town with you? If you still like a sporty driving experience, is it important to find a used SUV with sporty handling and plenty of power? Is there a certain manufacturer you want to stick with? Are you looking for a used SUV with low mileage? Do you want a pre-owned SUV from a recent model year so you can get all of the modern technology? 3 – Learn How to Get a Used Car Loan Asking questions like the above should help you hone in more precisely on the types of used SUVs that are the best fit for your needs and lifestyle. That will also give you a more precise idea of what you can expect to pay. With any luck, you’ll be able to find plenty of options for considerably less money than the original budget you set. Now you have a good idea of how much money you’ll have to borrow. Getting a used car loan is slightly harder than getting a new car loan, and you’ll normally get a worse interest rate. If you find used car financing experts, they’ll be able to help you. You can even apply for a used SUV loan online in advance. 4 – Choose Your Used Car Dealership in Tucson This step is important. Work with a used car dealer who is trusted within the community. Dealerships that are established and have good reputations won’t try to take advantage of you, and they’ll be motivated to give you the best deal on a used SUV so you tell your friends and family. 5 – Identify Options on the Lot Look for some of the vehicles you identified during your research. If you don’t see an option that will work for you, don’t settle. Ask someone at the pre-owned car dealership to help you find a more appropriate used SUV for your needs. They should want to help you find the right vehicle! 6 – Inspect and Test Drive The Used Car Look at the car thoroughly, and take note of anything that seems off. Keep the radio off on your test drive to listen for signs of trouble, too. Finally, ask about the vehicle history so you can be aware of any past or ongoing problems. 7 – Buy Your Used Car Now it’s time to close the deal. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for the best deal on your pre-owned SUV. After you’ve agreed on a price, you’re ready to consider add-ons and get the paperwork in order. A trustworthy used car dealership should be able to walk you through the process easily. Buy a Used SUV in Tucson Here at Cactus Auto, we’re proud of our reputation as the best used car dealership in Tucson. We earn it by offering a massive selection of pre-owned SUVs at fair prices. We’re so confident in our reliable used SUVs; we offer two years of free maintenance after the sale. Stop by to find yours!

Finding the Best Used Car Buying a pre-owned car can help you save a lot of money, but it also comes with some challenges. Even when you buy your used car from a trusted used car dealership in Tucson, you should come into the experience prepared if you really want to get the best possible deal. With that said, though, it’s not rocket science. We normally recommend these straightforward used car buying tips to help drivers save as much money as possible while finding the best pre-owned vehicle. Decide What You Want When you visit an independent used car dealership, you’ll find all kinds of makes and models. This can make it hard to narrow down your search unless you already have a good idea of what you want. Think about your budget and lifestyle as you determine whether you want a sedan, truck, SUV, or something else. If you can narrow it down to a few specific models that you like, it will be even easier to do your research. Know the Market Value of the Used Car This is why it might help if you know exactly which make and model you’ll be looking at. To be fair, though, sometimes you don’t know exactly what you’ll find at a used car dealership. One of the benefits of shopping at an independent dealership is that you’ll be exposed to all different makes and models of pre-owned cars. In that case, don’t be afraid to get out your smartphone at the dealership and do a few quick searches. Just tell the salesperson that you need a break to look at a few things. They should understand since they want you to be an informed buyer. Look up the type of used car you’re thinking about to see what kind of price range is fair. Think About Age and Mileage Is a car’s age or its mileage more important? There are a lot of different opinions about this issue, and it really seems to depend on the vehicle. In any case, it’s good to know a few things so you can understand the pre-owned vehicle you’re considering: The average vehicle gets driven about 10,000 to 12,000 miles each year. Divide the total mileage of a car by the car’s age to see how many miles per year it’s been driven. If the yearly mileage for a vehicle is well over 12,000 then the car could be considered high-mileage for its age. That makes it less valuable than similar cars of the same age. On the other hand, a car that’s been driven much less than 10,000 miles per year would be considered more valuable than other cars of that age. Most vehicles depreciate quickly for the first five years or so, then depreciate much more slowly. You can make sense of how age and mileage affect the value of a vehicle by looking at similar vehicles online to get a few examples. Take Your Time With the Vehicle Don’t rush the inspection or feel pressured to hurry if there’s a salesperson with you. Look for tears, stains, and other signs of wear and tear. Take a whiff to see if everything in the car smells normal. Look under the hood to see if it’s oily, cracked, or showing other signs of engine problems. Finally, sit in a few different seats to make sure everything is comfortable. Take a Test Drive This is an important part of your inspection. Test features like the sound system, heat, and air conditioning. Make sure there are no warning lights on, the brakes work well, and the car handles nicely. You shouldn’t smell, hear, or see anything unusual. Check the Vehicle’s History The used car dealership should be able to give you a full report of the vehicle’s history so you can see if there’s a pattern of repeated problems. If the same thing has been fixed over and over, you can probably guess why the previous owner bailed on the vehicle. You may even want to have a mechanic take a look. Visit Cactus Auto in Tucson Here at Cactus Auto, we’ve been building our reputation within the Tucson community since 1986. We know what it takes to identify the best-used cars, and we stock our lot with them. Our experienced staff can help walk you through all of the options as you identify which vehicle is the most precise fit for your needs. Stop by today to find your pre-owned vehicle!

We Buy Cars – FAQ Are you having trouble selling your car in Tucson? We will make the selling process easy for you. Regardless of why you are selling your vehicle, we are ready to help you get good money and have the best experience. The process of selling a vehicle can be easy as long as the dealer you choose to work with decides to work with you and not against you. How can I sell my car in Tucson? Keep on reading to get answers to some of your questions. How Long Will I Wait Before Receiving Payment Once I Agree To Sell To Cactus Auto Sales? Unlike other dealers who will make you wait for your payment, Cactus Auto pays you the same day. We will treat you with professionalism, whether you want to buy your new vehicle from us or not. Our buying process is straightforward and fast. Starting from appraisal to payment, you may spend 30 minutes at the most. What Happens If I Still Owe Cash On My Car? At Cactus Auto in Tucson, we will buy your car whether it’s paid off or not. Cactus Auto staff will do the paperwork on your behalf. After calculations, you will leave with a check for the amount after deductions. How Much Money Is My Vehicle Worth? You will get $1,000 more trade-in value when you trade your used car into Cactus Auto. Your Cactus Auto vehicle purchase must be more than $10,000. You will receive up to $250 more than when you sell to CarMax. So get a better offer today! What Is Required To Sell My Car? The requirements needed can differ from state to state; however, you’ll need a few things regardless of where you are. They include: Your vehicle’s payoff information or title. All titleholders must be present. All titleholders to have valid state-issued photo ID Valid and up-to-date registrations All keys and remotes Remember that you don’t require these items to get an offer for your vehicle, but if you plan to sell your used car when you get a better offer, ensure you come prepared with these things. How Do You Determine My Offer? An experienced appraiser in Tucson considers the current market conditions and your car’s details, including make, model, year, mileage, and vehicle history report. We assess your vehicle’s condition inside and out for major damages such as flood or flame damage. Also, we will test drive your car to see whether turn signals and brakes are functioning, among other things. In case repairs are required, we will adjust our offer accordingly. When it comes to cleanliness, long-term care and maintenance of your vehicle are essential in determining our appraisal offer. Can I Get My Car Appraised Online? Yes. You only need to fill out the form at the top of the page. Can I Sell My Leased Car? It’s possible to sell your leased car similarly to any other financed car. First, we’ll appraise the truck or car, then get in touch with the leasing company for a payoff quote then process any equity you may have. But please note that there are leasing companies that won’t allow you to sell your used car before the expiration of their lease. So, check with your leasing company first. Can Making Modifications To My Car Affect The Offer? Like any item, supply and demand determine the desirability of any vehicle or feature in the market. When you sell a used car, sometimes a feature can enhance the offer, and at times it can have a negative impact. In simple words, it depends on the feature or modification. Please note that an aftermarket modification can make the factory warranty to be void, reducing the offer. Where Can I Sell My Car In Tucson? You can sell your used car at Cactus Auto. We are located at 1602 W Prince Rd, Tucson. You can reach our sales representative using (520) 888 0910. Remember, you can fill out the appraisal form at the top of the page for an online appraisal. You have to provide details such as: Model of the vehicle Mileage Images of the car Your name, email, phone number Contact us today if you plan to sell your used car for a better deal.

Use Your Tax Refund on A Pre-Owned Car Deciding how to use your tax refund is an important decision. For many people, this refund is basically an infusion of cash that hasn’t been counted on or budgeted for, which can go a long way if things are tight financially. If this sounds familiar to you, it’s important to spend your tax refund wisely, using this money to make a big improvement in your life. One of the best ways to do this is by purchasing a pre-owned vehicle with your refund. What Is the Average Tax Refund? According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), most United States citizens receive a refund of roughly $3,000 each year. This is a nice chunk of change for most people, and it’s easy to get excited about all of the fun ways to spend it. We usually find that people make smarter decisions with their refunds once they really think about where that money is coming from. Your refund is all of the money that you overpaid in taxes throughout the year. In other words, this is your own hard-earned money that should be rightfully yours, and it’s coming back to you after you basically gave the IRS an interest-free loan all year. It’s not just “free money,” and we definitely don’t recommend spending it on something silly. Instead, learn how you can use this cash infusion to get yourself into a pre-owned vehicle. Using Your Tax Refund for a Used Vehicle Even if your tax refund isn’t big enough to pay for a used vehicle outright, don’t worry! You can use the money you have as a great down payment for the pre-owned vehicle of your dreams. If you have enough money to make a significant down payment, it will be much easier to qualify for a used car loan if you need to. Putting down a few thousand dollars (which is an average tax return) will help you show lenders that you’re serious about paying for the vehicle. When you can start off by making a great down payment like this, lenders will probably give you better options than they would otherwise. It also decreases the total amount you will have to borrow from the lender, decreasing your monthly payments. Maximizing your down payment to reduce the amount you borrow can also help you spend less money on interest over the life of your loan. Finally, you’re greatly reducing your chance of getting into a situation where you end up in an upside-down loan (when you owe more money on your car than you could sell it for). What Is a Good Down Payment for a Car? A normal down payment for a vehicle would be about 10%. People who are buying new cars might want to put down more than this, possibly more like 20%, because new cars depreciate in value so quickly. Fast depreciation means you need a bigger down payment to avoid an upside-down loan. The great thing about used cars is they don’t depreciate as fast. Should I Use My Tax Refund to Get a More Expensive Car? Your tax refund is a one-time thing (unless you overpay your taxes again next year), but car expenses are more constant. Don’t add luxury features that go beyond what your normal budget should be. Sticking to your original budget, then using your tax refund, will help you get into an easier car-buying situation that makes you feel financially secure. Buy A Used Vehicle Today at Cactus Auto For help buying a used car with your tax refund, visit Cactus Auto Sales in Tucson. We have vehicles that span a wide variety of makes and models, so you’ll be able to find any kind of used vehicle.

Should I Fix My Old Car or Buy A Used One Are you considering purchasing a used car to replace your current vehicle? Perhaps you are on the fence, not sure if you should continue to fix the old car or buy a new one. Sometimes it is a tough call that requires weighing the pros and cons. Much depends on your current vehicle make, year, and model, what kind of costs you are looking at, and what you have already put into it. What Are The Costs Of Wear And Tear? The longer you own your vehicle, the more wear and tear becomes an issue. Even if you maintain your car and take good care of it, these costs will add up. There are variables, of course, like how many miles you put on your car and what type of miles they are. For example, suppose you have a heavy commute and use your vehicle for many daily errands, such as taking kids to school or going to the grocery store. In that case, your vehicle wear and tear will be more extensive than someone who works from home and only drives short distances a few times per week. Some wear and tear costs that can add up include timing belt replacement, brake rotors, and electronic components. Prices for some of these higher-level repairs and replacements can exceed $1,000 and typically start to stack up after you’ve reached the 100,000-mile mark. The Case For Fixing Your Old Car If you think of your car as an investment, the argument for repairing a vehicle versus buying another car is valid. You’ve already put a considerable amount of money into your car. Perhaps you’ve paid it off or are near to paying it off. Suppose your car is still in good condition but needs reasonable maintenance or repairs. In that case, you may be better off keeping your vehicle, maintaining it, and waiting for a few more years before purchasing another car. Consider this if the case is that you have paid it off or are close to paying it off. Adding a new car payment is not always the best route, especially if the repairs to your current vehicle are not excessive. The Case For Buying A Used Car Are there times when you should fix your old car and buy a new one? Yes, of course. Other times, though, it makes more sense to purchase another vehicle. If you find that your repair costs are exorbitant or recurring and your pocketbook is taking a big hit regularly, buying another car is a good option. A used vehicle may come with a warranty, either from the manufacturer or from a third party. These warranties can give you peace of mind. Not only that, but if the used car is low on miles and has been well-maintained, you can relax knowing that major repairs will not be an issue for some time. When You Should Just Buy Another Car When your current car is breaking down regularly and has become unsafe or is causing you to miss work, it’s definitely time to look into purchasing another car. At this point, owning your car has become too stressful and expensive, and you never know when it’s going to break down on you. If your repairs are starting to exceed what your vehicle is worth or are causing financial hardship, it makes more sense to purchase another car. Used cars are often a better deal than a brand-new car. There are several reasons for this, including the overall cost of the vehicle, cost of ownership, and depreciation. In some cases, a used car has more value than a brand-new car, depending on the make and model. Registration may be less expensive with a used car, and the overall price is less costly. Test Drive Used Cars In Tucson If you’ve mulled over whether to repair your old car or buy a used car and have decided to buy used, head over to browse our used vehicles today. You can contact us to make an appointment or come see us today.

First-Time Car Buyer? Here Are Some Useful Tips Buying your first car can certainly be a confusing and stressful experience; but it doesn’t have to be. Below you’ll find some useful tips to help ease you into buying your first car! Tips for Getting Ready to go to The Dealership Establish a Budget Budgeting is a useful skill in most aspects of life. Starting by figuring out your transportation budget is as important as any other necessary budget you’ll be setting. This figure is based on what you can afford to pay per month, less your other immediate expenses. Ideally, we’d all like to pay cash for a brand new car and avoid any type of interest payments, but in most cases, when considering a new or even a used car, the nature of the transaction price is often based on the leverage of financing. As a first-time car buyer, you’ll have to consider your hierarchy of needs, beginning with physiological needs such as shelter, food, and health insurance. Once you’ve calculated those areas, the remainder of your budget could be spent on a car payment, fuel, and—lest we forget—car insurance. You won’t be able to hit the road in your new wheels without Car Insurance! Be Honest About Your Needs Whether you’re a single household or a family of five, being honest with yourself about your needs is pivotal when it comes to buying your first new or used car. If you’re a single household working in finance, odds are you don’t need a diesel pick-up for your morning commute. Conversely, if you’re a parent of three, you probably shouldn’t be looking at the latest cabriolet with only two rear passenger seats. Given the cost of fuel, car insurance, and—in most major metropolitan areas—monthly parking; don’t buy what you don’t need or can’t afford. Know What Type of Car You Want Even though we suggested focusing primarily on your needs and not wants, considering the type of car you want to drive every day is still an important factor in the process. There’s no greater pitfall than buyer’s remorse, especially when it comes to something as integral and costly as your first car. Get Your Finances in Order One thing every car dealer will look at is your credit score. If that is something you’re concerned about, we at Cactus Auto are experts at working with less than perfect credit! While a higher credit score makes it easier to get approved for an auto loan, an alternative route you can take, especially if your credit isn’t great, is supplying proof of income. If you want to talk over some of your options before you even begin looking at cars, feel free to Contact Us —we’ve been serving residents from Tucson and the surrounding communities in Arizona for over 30 years, so rest assured you’re in good hands. Buy ItBeforeYou Need It This piece of advice is critically important—don’t wait until your back is against the wall to buy a car because, in a nation that covers nearly 3.8 million square miles, you’re going to need a car at some point in your adult life. Poor decisions are often made in the heat of the moment, so you want to make sure you’re taking the time to consider and weigh all of your options before making a decision. At The Dealership Tips Inspect the Car, Inside and Out Inspect both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Look over the exterior of the vehicle, checking for scratches, dents, and rust. You don’t really need to worry about small dings or minor scratches, but larger damaged areas may be a cause for concern. We also always recommend checking to verify that the vehicle’s body panels line up correctly, as uneven panels may indicate that the vehicle was in an accident and not repaired properly. It’s also a good idea to open and close the doors, hood, and trunk of the car to see how easily, or uneasily, they move. Inspect the inside of the car by sitting in all the seats, working the seat levers, and looking for unusual wear in the upholstery. If you smell something musty, check the carpet and floor mats for signs of a leak or water damage. Take It for a Spin Going for a test drive can help determine whether or not the vehicle is a good fit for you and can also give you insights into the car’s condition. You should always turn the Keys to the “Accessory” position, which should illuminate all the dashboard warning lights. If they don’t turn on and illuminate or stay lit when you turn the key in the ignition, make sure the issue is inspected. When you start the engine, make sure you’re listening for tapping or clicking sounds, which could indicate an issue with the engine. While you’re test driving the car, keep your eyes and ears open. You may even want to consider driving the car on different types of roads and at varying speeds to verify that the transmission is shifting smoothly. Make sure to note any strange engine or brake sounds, and keep track of whether or not all of the electronics in the car are working properly. First-Time Car Buying Financing Even if you get a great deal from a dealership on a used car, buying a vehicle is still a big investment. That’s why our team at Cactus Auto works hard to connect our buyers with the best used car loans in Tucson. We normally advise against taking on any loan where the car payment would be more than 10% of your income (after taxes). One of the great things about buying a used car is that it helps your budget stretch further. The maximum loan size may also depend on your credit score. It’s generally a good idea to apply for your auto loan before you buy a car, that way, you can walk into any dealership and know what you can or can not spend. Still, you can discuss financing after you agree on a sale price if you want. A member of our team will work with you to make the process as smooth as possible for you. Close the deal – Time to Purchase Once you’ve decided what you want, have kicked the tires on it, and have established a general sense of what you can afford, it’s time to arrive at a purchase price. There are various online sources that you can research that will give you an accurate idea of what people have paid in your area for the car you’re interested in purchasing. A credit union can also provide you with perspective and may even have a contact person that they’ve worked with in the past on the showroom floor. Lastly, when it comes time to negotiate what you’re willing to pay, you don’t want to show your entire hand and tell them the amount you can afford. If you’re thinking that you’ll be able to budget $15K, and you’re looking at a car that’s valued at $20K, start with telling the salesman you can afford $15K—you can always work your way up to the actual number once they counter. Why Buy a Used Vehicle Now, the big question is, why would you buy a used car over a new car? There are several reasons that make Used Cars a much better value for your money. For starters, Used Cars typically cost 50% less than a brand new car off the dealership showroom, and the majority of the vehicle’s depreciation has already occurred—meaning if you buy a Used Vehicle today, the rate at which its value decreases is a fraction of that for a brand new vehicle. This is particularly important when considering you’re a first-time car buyer, and on average, consumers switch cars at an average of six years after the initial purchase. Also, Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles have been thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and certified by the manufacturer (or other certification authority), which assures the vehicle is as advertised. Used cars also do not require Gap Insurance—which is a premium that covers the difference between what you paid for your new vehicle and what its depreciation value is after you pulled it off the lot—which will save you a ton of money each month on your insurance premium, considering the depreciation value is much lower for a Used Car. Contact Us to Discuss Options With Your Local Experts As long as you follow the basics when you start looking: knowing what you can spend, knowing the car you want, lining up your finances and looking into financial options, thoroughly inspecting the car you want, and of course, try to enjoy the process! You only get to buy your first car once, so you might as well make it memorable for all the right reasons. We’re here if you need any help at all, no matter where in the process you currently are; our team will do whatever they can to get you on the road in your new car. At Cactus Auto, we’re experts in finding the best auto financing Tucson has to offer. People come to our location on Prince Road from all over Arizona because we have the best pricing, free maintenance with every sale, and have a variety of car financing available. See if you qualify by applying for credit today.

What You’ll Learn As you read about vehicle history reports, you’ll learn: Getting a vehicle history report can be a great first step that helps you decide if it is looking at a specific used car. The best vehicle history reports should always contain key data that gives you important insights into a car’s past. Even though vehicle history reports aren’t perfect, they can give you a lot of great information about a vehicle that you might not be able to get from a test drive alone. What Is a Vehicle History Report? The name says it all. A vehicle history report is a collection of information from throughout a vehicle’s entire history. It includes some of the key information every car buyer should know to make an informed purchase, and it is one of the best ways to ensure you don’t end up with a lemon or waste time looking at a car with obvious problems. The reports are tied to each car’s vehicle identification number, also known as the VIN. This makes it relatively easy to track everything that has ever been reported about a vehicle and get it consolidated into a single report with a lot of great information. Occasionally, there will be things missing from the report, such as people who perform DIY service and don’t report it or services performed by dishonest mechanics who don’t report their work. Almost every reputable car repair shop, insurance agency, and inspector is in the habit of reporting their work, though. That means that a new record about a car goes into the database every time the vehicle goes in for anything, whether it’s an oil change, a smog test, or something more serious. Since these reports are entered with the VIN, they’re connected to every other instance where something has been reported about the same vehicle. Why Do I Need a Free Vehicle History Report? Many different companies offer vehicle history reports. AutoCheck and Carfax are some of the most popular, but there is some cost associated with getting those reports. Some dealerships may offer their reports for free, but you can expect to pay for them if you’re getting them on their own. In many cases, though, you can buy a package of multiple reports, which will help you get through your car shopping experience with much less stress and uncertainty. It is generally worth paying for vehicle history reports because they can save you from such expensive mistakes. Understandably, though, this isn’t in the budget for everyone who is buying a used car. If that’s the case, you can find a few different free vehicle history reports online. The free versions won’t offer quite as much information, but it’s still better than nothing. Do some searching on the internet to see what you can learn about a vehicle before checking it out. History reports can help you catch things like the following: Odometer Rollbacks – No one will be able to fake the mileage if you have an entire history of every odometer reading. Previous Owners – If a vehicle has had many owners who used the vehicle for demanding things, you’ll be able to take that into account. Maintenance Records and Accidents – Know what has happened to the car and how it has been serviced. Title Information – Check to see if the car has a salvage title or a clean title. You can also see if there are any liens on the car. Recall Information – You can check this for free in most cases. Key Rules of Used Car Buying Always ask for vehicle history reports, but don’t stop there. It’s still important to take the vehicle for a thorough test drive and make sure a trustworthy, skilled car technician has inspected it. You can find great used cars anywhere, but it is almost always best to buy from a used car dealership with a strong reputation in its community. Used Cars With Vehicle History Reports in Tucson Here at Cactus Auto in Tucson, we’re happy to provide vehicle history reports for every vehicle we sell. We take pride in buying and selling the best-used cars available to us. We have nothing to hide, and we want to show the ownership history of our vehicles. We’ll help you confirm that the vehicle you’re looking at has a clean title, show you the repair history, and include the number of previous owners along with a general vehicle description. Becoming the best-used car dealership in Tucson is about more than just offering vehicle history reports. We are proud to do business the right way and provide excellent service throughout the entire car buying process and beyond. We’re even the home of the “72 Hour Exchange.” If you’re unhappy with your vehicle for any reason within the first 72 hours, just bring it back to us! Contact us today to inquire about vehicle history reports, learn more about our selection, and start shopping for your next vehicle! FAQs Some car buyers aren’t very familiar with vehicle history reports yet. Here at Cactus Auto, we always want to create informed buyers. The more we can teach people about buying used cars, the more likely they realize what makes us different from other used car dealerships in Arizona. Here are some of the main questions we hear from our customers about vehicle history reports. How Accurate Are Vehicle History Reports? This may sound obvious, but vehicle history reports are only as good as the data that goes into them. In other words, it’s important to get a vehicle history report from a company with a reputation for having reliable access to complete information. Of course, even the best vehicle history reports might be missing information because there are so many different car repair shops, vehicle registries, insurance agencies, and other reporting sources that it’s impossible to avoid errors sometimes. Still, respected vehicle history report sources like Carfax and AutoCheck are known for finding the best information they can. These companies may even offer buyback guarantees in some cases. That is, if you buy a car based on their inaccurate information, they will buy it from you. Inspecting a car and taking a test drive is always important. Still, vehicle history reports can help you find out about major problems before you waste time, money, or energy looking into a vehicle with a suspicious ownership history or repair history. At a minimum, these reports should help you be sure that the vehicle has a clean title. What Information Can I Find In a Vehicle History Report? A vehicle history report is like a vehicle description that also includes information about its past. It should always include a few key points such as the following: Vehicle ownership history, including how the previous owners used the car Accident history, damage description, and repair history Recall notices and a service history that makes it clear if those recalls were addressed Odometer readings from different points in the vehicle’s history Title information, such as whether the vehicle has a clean title or there are any liens on the vehicle Know You’re Making A Good Purchasing Decision at Cactus Auto in Tucson, AZ While both AutoCheck and CarFax charge subscription fees for their detailed vehicle history reports, there are other options available. Some websites offer free VIN lookups, which will give you general information, but they don’t dig deep into vehicle history, maintenance and title information. We know that buying a car is a big decision, and that’s why we include a vehicle history report for every single one we sell and our vehicles are professionally inspected. Why? Because at the end of the day – the best car buyers and sellers are informed ones. Come see us today and get behind the wheel of a good vehicle purchase from Cactus Auto in Tucson.

The Current State of Car Sales Selling a car can often be a confusing and even arduous process. You might not know what your car is worth or whether the used car lot or private buyer you’re selling it to is trustworthy. Likewise, you may want to trade your car in but be unsure where to start and how much other vehicles are really worth. This year — with the disruptions produced by the pandemic, and consequent price spikes of many goods, including used cars — that confusion and uncertainty may feel even more palpable. Fortunately, there is really no reason for that to be the case. In fact, by many metrics, now is a great time to sell your car! With used car prices uniquely high and new cars in short supply, now can be an excellent time to generate a significant return. This may be especially true if you currently own a car that is not getting much use, and you could use a little extra cash for it. Read on to learn about why selling a car in the Tucson, Arizona, area right now can be a great financial and personal choice for you. New Car Prices Due to both the pandemic and other factors, the car market is currently in an unusual state. A number of supply chain issues have cropped up over the course of the last year and a half, and they have yet to fully return to normal. A particular issue affecting both new and used car prices has been a global microchip shortage, an electronic component that is essential to a wide variety of items, including cars. This shortage is due to many factors. Supply chain hold-ups associated with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have been one of them. Unusual patterns of supply and demand over the last year and a half have been another: demand for many items, including cars, weakened in the early part of the pandemic, and many car manufacturers canceled orders. However, the proliferation of individuals working at home ultimately strengthened demand for microchips for other electronics — and as car demand rebounded, there were simply too few microchips to accommodate requirements for automobiles. Environmental factors, including a severe drought in Taiwan (the world’s leading producer of microchips), have also played a part. At this point, it remains unclear exactly when the microchip supply will fully increase to meet demand. But demand for cars has also rebounded, and now is very strong. Some of this may also be due to the pandemic and an associated desire by individuals to have their own means of transportation and avoid public transportation or crowded settings. In short, all of these factors have combined to produce high demand for cars — particularly used cars — with accompanying relatively low supply. Used Car Prices As of October 2021, the average price of a new car is over $45,000 — an unprecedented average sales price for a new car. Notably, this trend has continued for at least the last six months, even though car sales have actually fallen. According to the same article, new car sales have actually fallen in the same period, and September 2021 was particularly bad for new cars. All of this suggests that new car sales prices have yet to top out and may continue to rise for an indefinite period. Selling a Car Now Naturally, the increasing price of new cars has had a significant effect on the price of used automobiles. Used car prices also continue to be extremely high — and in fact, used car wholesale prices are 27% higher than they were one year ago, in September 2020. All this suggests that it may be an especially good time to sell your used car! Trading-in a Car Now While a lot is uncertain in the current used automobile market, one thing is fairly clear: if you sell your car now, you potentially stand to earn significant value for it. Obviously, this is sometimes easier said than done. If you only own one car, you may not be in a realistic position to sell your car, particularly if buying a new vehicle is economically prohibitive for you. Likewise, if your car is in poor repair, it may not fetch as high a value as you might hope, even under current market conditions and associated shortages. Still, it is a unique market right now. In general, it is often true that you will get the most value when you sell your car privately to another individual. However, in these unprecedented times, selling your car to a used car lot — particularly if you have an older, fairly desirable model in generally good condition — can get you a healthy price for your vehicle. Used car lots are uniquely aware of current market shortages and may be willing to pay top dollar for a used car in relatively good condition. Conclusion For various reasons, now can also be a good time to think about trading in your used car. Finding a dealer with a strong need for your type of used car may help you get the most value for it. For instance, if you are attempting to sell a truck, and a particular dealership is short on trucks, you may be most successful and get the highest value for your vehicle if you trade it in there. Dealers are uniquely vulnerable and receptive to current market conditions. They can help you to understand the current high value of your automobile, as well as your ideal choice for a new vehicle. In general, it is worth doing consistent research and potentially shopping your vehicle around — particularly in the event of a trade-in — to ensure you are getting the best value possible. But once you have found the right dealer, now can be a great time to complete a highly valuable trade-in. If you are looking to sell a used car in Tucson, Arizona, or the surrounding area, contact Cactus Auto! We have enormous experience with a wide variety of used automobiles, and we can get you the best possible deal on your used car. At the same time, we can make the process smooth, streamlined, and hassle-free for you in this volatile market. If you are interested in selling a used car, consider starting with our free appraisal, which can offer an estimate to you for no charge. We have a great selection of inventory as well for individuals interested in a trade-in. Now is the time to sell! Visit us at Cactus Auto to take the next step on your vehicle sale process.

Selling a car can be stressful. Most people want to make sure they get the best possible price for their vehicle, but they also want to complete the process without experiencing a hassle. Selling your car to a dealership is probably easiest because they’ve bought lots of cars before and have the process down to a science. Whether you’re selling a car for cash or using your current vehicle as a trade-in, follow the simple process below to save time compared to a private sale. Preparing to Sell Your Car A lot of the preparation work gets easier when you don’t have to worry about where you’ll find a buyer. Still, there are a few things to do as you prepare to get the best price for your car. Someone at the dealership is going to look at your vehicle to decide how much it’s worth, so you should already have some ideas about this. Do research online to get a ballpark estimate for your car’s cash value as well as its trade-in value, which may be slightly different. Next, make sure you have everything lined up so you can proceed with the transaction. Your car should be clean, which will help it look better and help you get the highest possible price. Also, make sure you have all of the documents and accessories that go with your vehicle. This means the title, extra keys, and anything else that may add value for the dealership and get you a better price. What to Do When You Sell to a Dealership Now that you have everything together and your car is clean, you’re ready to arrive at the dealership. Let someone know that you’re there to sell a car. The person you’re already talking to may be able to help you with that, or they may connect you with someone else who knows how to handle the process of selling a car to a dealership. They’ll inspect the car, and they’ll also check the VIN to see if the vehicle has been in any reported accidents. They’ll also want to know if you’re using the car as a trade-in or if you’re selling your vehicle for cash. After the initial conversation and inspection, the service department may get involved to take a closer look. They’ll check important mechanical components like the engine, brakes, and various fluids. Finally, someone from the dealership may test drive your vehicle. Understanding the Offer When You Sell Your Car Now the discussion becomes about money. The dealership will make an offer based on the value of similar cars, your vehicle’s condition, and a few other factors. For example, you may get a higher offer if your vehicle is in high demand and don’t have any others like it. If you still owe money on the car, think about whether the offer will be enough to help you pay off the remaining balance of your loan. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and talk to the dealer at this point. The best-used car dealerships will be transparent and speak with you honestly about why they made the offer they did. If something about the offer seems off, don’t be afraid to shop around, just as you would when you buy a new car. Completing the Transaction If you accept the offer, it’s time to complete some paperwork. This shouldn’t take very long if you have the title and any other necessary documents with you. Once the paperwork is in order, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to walk out with a check that day. This process gets a little bit longer and more complicated if you still owe money on your car or don’t have the title with you. The good news is that dealerships have bought so many cars before, so they’ll be able to help you navigate even the tricky parts of the process. Why Sell to a Dealership? The assistance you can get with paperwork is only part of selling to a dealership instead of a private buyer. For one thing, it’s a lot faster and more convenient, so you won’t have to spend weeks searching the internet for a buyer. When you want to sell your car immediately, put in minimal work, and avoid scammers, sell your car to a dealer. Sell Your Car in Tucson at Cactus Auto Here at Cactus Auto, we’ve built a reputation for ourselves as the most dependable used car dealership in Tucson. We have experience buying and selling cars, which enables us to help with whatever you need. Every transaction is an opportunity to serve our community, so come in today for superior service.

If you need a new-to-you used car, then you might be considering buying one from a dealership. If that’s the case, there are many things to look for when purchasing that will help guide your decision, including the car’s history, whether there are mechanical issues, and warranty options. Cactus Auto is happy to provide you with some tips to follow when buying a used car from a dealer before making your final purchase. Find a Vehicle That Fits Your Needs and Budget When buying a used car, the first thing you should do is determine its role in your life. Once you know what kind of vehicle you’re looking for, it will be easier to find one that suits your needs. Then, you can decide how much you are willing to spend on that vehicle or comparable models. You can then research vehicles that interest you to learn what to expect to pay, depending on factors like age, mileage, and condition Consider Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles Certified pre-owned vehicles have been inspected by the manufacturer and certified to be in good condition, reassuring the buyer that it will provide years of reliable miles. If the vehicle comes with a warranty, it can help protect your investment in case issues arise while you own it. Cost and Financing Options When looking at a used car, be sure to calculate the cost of the vehicle with all available financing options. Many dealerships offer low-interest loans so you can drive off in your new vehicle worry-free. Always Get a Vehicle History Report A vehicle history must be reviewed when considering purchasing a used car. This will tell you whether the vehicle has been in any major accidents, if it has ever been totaled, stolen, or has a salvaged title. If so, then that would be a good indicator as to why it is still for sale. If the vehicle had minor accident damage, you can see what repairs were done and the cost. With the vehicle’s VIN, you can obtain a vehicle history report from a reputable company like CARFAX or AutoCheck. Always Inspect and Test Drive a Vehicle Before Purchasing The first step when looking at a used vehicle is a thorough inspection, or if you are not mechanically inclined, have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. You want to make sure the car runs well, has no mechanical issues, and feels comfortable to drive. Take note of the exterior, interior, and engine compartment areas for any wear and tear, damages, or newly-installed parts. Check for Warranty Coverage Ask to see if the vehicle you are interested in may still have some of its factory warranty remaining. Some dealerships offer an additional warranty on a vehicle with varying levels of coverage after the factory warranty expires. If you feel there is a risk of the vehicle breaking down before the standard warranty expires, then you might want to consider buying extended coverage from the dealership. Complete the Paperwork Correctly When you buy a used car from a dealership, the seller should provide you with paperwork that includes the VIN of the vehicle, its mileage, and any modifications made to it. Be sure to review the paperwork for the vehicle and verify all information and details before signing anything. You should also ensure that your personal and credit information is correct on the contract and title. Cactus Auto Has Your Next Dream Car Buying a used vehicle can be a great way to save money and get a reliable vehicle to fit your needs. But it is essential to know what to look for and what you need to consider before making a purchase. Do your research and talk to a qualified dealer to find the best used vehicle for you at the best price. Most importantly, make sure you are prepared by researching the vehicles that interest you and having all the necessary paperwork completed correctly and information available before you commit to any purchase. Cactus Auto in Tucson is your one-stop dealership specializing in used cars. Offering customer-friendly features that other dealerships cannot, including 30-day price match and 7-day exchange guarantees, Cactus Auto is dedicated to customer satisfaction. If your current vehicle is not meeting your needs, bring it to Cactus Auto for cash or trade it in for your ideal vehicle. To see Cactus Auto’s massive variety of inventory, browse our online inventory or come by our dealership to find your next car today!