Why a Used BMW Could Be Your Best Investment
Buying a used BMW could be your ticket to joining the bimmer family without breaking the bank. Don’t let the “used” label fool you–a pre-owned BMW can provide the same driving experience as a new one but at a steal. Check out these reasons why buying a used beamer could be your best investment.
Reliable Performance for Years
BMW is well renowned for manufacturing highly reliable and durable cars. The cars are engineered with powerful engines and durable transmissions that promise excellent performance throughout the vehicle’s lifespan. When you buy a used model, you can expect it to drive smoothly and reliably for many years. Just make sure you opt for a high-quality unit that was well-maintained by the previous owner.
Premium Comfort at a Bargain
Luxury is the cornerstone of the BMW brand, and buying a used model allows you to enjoy premium comfort at a bargain. BMWs boast the finest features, including leather upholstery, real wood trim accents, plush seats, and a host of comfort features. With the wide variety in the used car market, you can narrow down your options to the best features for your budget. You could opt for an affordable but well-loaded base trim or a higher trim with even more amenities.
High-Tech In-Cabin and Safety Features
Buying a used car doesn’t mean sacrificing cutting-edge tech. For many years now, BMW has been producing cars that feature advanced in-cabin and safety features. You will find technologies like:
• Dual-display infotainment screens
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• Wireless smartphone integration
• BMW theater screens for the rear cabin
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-departure warning
• Blind spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control
BMWs also have some of the best audio systems on the market. Even used models come with Harman Kardon, Bang & Olufsen, or Bowers & Wilkins premium audio systems.
Cheaper Car Financing
Buying a new luxury car can put a dent in your finances, even if you opt for financing. The high price tag means you have to spend more each month on your car payments. Buying used allows you to secure financing without straining your finances. Since a used bimmer is significantly cheaper than a new one, you can take out a smaller loan. This makes the monthly payment manageable, allowing you to enjoy your new ride without overextending your budget.
Excellent Resale Value
It’s no secret that new cars lose a huge chunk of their value over the first five years. This isn’t the case with BMWs, though. Due to their renowned reliability and excellent performance, bimmers hold their value better than competitors within the same price range. If you decide to sell your pre-owned BMW in the future, you will get a good trade-in or private sale value. Buying a used bimmer allows you to enjoy luxury, premium amenities, and excellent performance without breaking the bank. Swing by Cactus Auto in Tucson, AZ to check out our extensive inventory of preowned BMWs.
If you are planning on buying a pre-owned Mazda, don’t think twice about it. Mazda is well-known for producing reliable vehicles with efficient engines. If you’re someone who loves to drive, a used Mazda is perfect for you.
Endless Options Within Your Budget
The used car market offers numerous Mazda vehicles to choose from. For an affordable yet powerful sedan or hatchback, you can opt for the Mazda3 or Mazda6. Mazda offers these sedans in petrol, diesel, and hybrid options to suit your power needs. If you prefer an SUV, Mazda has several, such as the CX-5, CX-3, CX-30, and CX-9. You can select your preferred model year and trim level based on your budget and preferences.
Luxurious Yet Reliable Vehicles
Mazda blends the luxury of German vehicles with reliability like that of Toyota and Honda. You get stylish looks, a comfortable and luxurious interior, and a thrilling driving experience. As long as you maintain your used Mazda, you can easily put over 200,000 miles on it without dealing with major repairs. We recommend buying a used or certified pre-owned unit from a reliable dealership. This ensures that the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected to ensure reliability. You will also be able to get a comprehensive report showing the car’s service history, accident history, and other useful information.
Great Fuel Economy
Mazda’s innovative SKYACTIV technology is a game changer when it comes to fuel efficiency. The tech was launched in 2010, so models from 2011 onwards come equipped with it. SKYACTIV engines compress the air and fuel in the cylinder before lighting it off, meaning you get more power from each combustion. Models like the 2023 Mazda3 return up to 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. A 2019 Mazda CX-5 4WD will return 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. If you love taking long road trips, this technology can help you save a lot of money on fuel.
Modern Vehicle Technology
Used Mazdas come with modern in-vehicle technologies to make every drive exciting. You will get intuitive infotainment systems that allow you to stay connected with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation. Even if you go back five years or more, you will still find modern technologies in used Mazdas. Other great tech features include a head-up display in some models and premium Bose audio systems. You will also find safety features like blind spot monitoring, pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. When you buy a used Mazda, you’re not just getting a cheaper car. You get to enjoy proven reliability, comfort, luxury, and advanced tech on every drive. Visit Cactus Auto in Tucson, AZ to explore our inventory of high-quality used vehicles.
When it comes to marrying top-tier technology, long-lasting reliability, and extraordinary value, the obvious choice is a pre-owned Toyota. With cars, trucks, minivans, and SUVs on offer, there’s a used Toyota for every driver. Here are just a few fantastic models to consider for your next daily driver.
A Zippy Hatchback for City Drivers: The 2019 Toyota Yaris L
Coming in at just 171.2 inches long, the Yaris L is perfect for city driving, where parking spots are small and competition is high. This energetic little hatchback offers seating for five plus 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, making bringing along bags, gear, and groceries a breeze.
With an EPA estimated 34 mpg combined (30 city / 39 highway), the nimble and affordable Yaris will help drivers save at the pump. USB connectivity, keyless ignition, cruise control, and backup cameras are all standard, along with power windows and heated mirrors. Pre-collision safety watches out for you on the road, with emergency braking assistance coming standard, along with tire pressure monitoring to alert drivers to tires that may need attention.
Dependability, Efficiency, and Comfort: The 2021 Toyota Corolla LE
There’s a reason the Corolla has been an icon in the auto industry for decades, and 2021’s edition is no exception. With a roomy front row, an efficient and capable engine that gets a combined 33 mpg, and plenty of infotainment features, the 2021 Corolla LE is a great fit. Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity come standard, with heated mirrors, one-touch power windows, and remote entry coming standard, too.
A prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick vouches for the 2021 Corolla’s safety, with a full safety suite including lane keep assist, pre-collision and post-collision safety systems, lane departure warnings, accident avoidance, and more. Traction control and stability control features help maintain a good grip on the road, and four-wheel ABS brakes help ensure the Corolla decelerates effectively when needed.
Hybrid Efficiency and High Style: The 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited
With an EPA estimated fuel economy of 43 mpg and a range of over 560 miles, the 2021 Avalon Hybrid Limited is a great choice for long cruises. With over 40 inches of legroom in back and over 42 inches up front, every passenger rides in comfort, and with power-adjustable, heated, premium leather seats, they do it in comfort, too.
With so many safe, dependable, and technology-driven models to choose from, a used Toyota isn’t just a great decision, it’s an investment in a great driving experience for years to come. Visit Cactus Auto in Tucson, AZ, and let our committed and courteous team help you find your next perfect automobile at a price that will have you driving home happy.
The road to savings is paved with many tips, and buying a dependable used car is one of the standouts. This advice has been doled out for ages and has stood the test of time. Why? Because purchasing used cars allows savvy buyers to capitalize on significant savings and still get a reliable vehicle. Let’s see more reasons why buying a pre-owned Ford is good business all round.
It Offers Unmatched Value
New cars have their merits, including zero mileage, warranty coverage, and less worry about maintenance issues. The downside is they can cost a pretty penny, requiring you to shell out tens of thousands of dollars.
Fortunately, most pre-owned cars come with almost all the features of their newer counterparts, including advanced safety features, a modern infotainment system, and an interior you’ll enjoy. So, while the used ones have more miles, you’ll basically get the same vehicle (and the same luxury) but at a price that fits your budget.
It Lets You Take the Guesswork out of the Buying Process
The pre-owned cars at your nearest dealership have undergone and passed a thorough inspection by factory-trained and certified technicians. But even before they are inspected, these vehicles have to pass a stringent requirement test, including criteria for age and mileage.
If these mechanics find any faulty part, they will replace it with OEM parts (which, of course, are warranted). You can rest assured that when you buy a pre-owned car from your local dealer, you get a mechanically sound, almost-new machine that will serve you well for a long time.
Registration and Other Expenses Are Much Cheaper
The annual registration fees you need to pay for your vehicle depend on the model year and current market value. Since pre-owned vehicles are cheaper than new ones, expect to save hundreds of dollars when you opt for the former. In addition, you can also save on auto insurance over the long run because insurance rates for used cars are generally lower compared to those of newer cars.
You Can Get Financing
You can use car financing to make the purchase of the already pocket-friendly pre-owned vehicle even more affordable. This financing option can be arranged directly at your dealer, often on the very same day you wish to purchase your car.
The process is quick and stress-free because the dealership’s finance manager handles the paperwork for you, including searching for the best loan terms. The only big decision you have to make on that day will be whether to drive home directly or take a celebratory spin around the neighborhood.
Want to test drive a pre-owned vehicle? Contact Cactus Auto in Tucson, AZ, to schedule yours today.
Get Your Car’s A/C Checked Before Summer Hits in AZ
If you live in Arizona, you probably already know just how important car air conditioning is. This is especially true in the summer months when temperatures regularly climb over 100°F and stay there for hours at a time. Many residents in the Tucson area make a point of getting A/C maintenance at their homes before the temperature gets too brutal, and it’s also a good idea to get a car A/C tune-up. Taking a proactive approach to your car air conditioning system is important for a variety of reasons:
- If the mechanic has an opportunity to identify minor issues and potential problems, the repairs will be relatively inexpensive. If you wait until the problem grows, on the other hand, it may end up leading to costly repairs.
- Arizona is extremely hot. Because of the summer weather here, we wouldn’t recommend going without air conditioning for any amount of time. In other words, we highly recommend against letting your car’s A/C go out in the first place. Even if you take it in for emergency car A/C repair as soon as you can, you’re still going to be dealing with an uncomfortable drive to the service center. Sitting in a hot car gets unpleasant in a hurry, so prevent yourself from getting into that situation in the first place.
- Taking good care of the air conditioning system in your car will add years to the life of its parts. When one part is worn down or malfunctioning, even if it isn’t enough to cause a complete failure of the car A/C system, the inefficiency caused puts more strain on the other parts. Being proactive will save you a lot of time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
Does Hot Weather Affect Car A/C?
The hotter it is outside, the more frustrating it will be if your car can’t cool down. Unfortunately, there’s actually the highest level of risk that your air conditioner will fail during the hottest times of the year. This is because trying to combat the excessive heat puts additional strain on your A/C system.
Once the temperature gets higher than roughly 90°F, the air conditioner in your car starts to work at full capacity. Most people also turn the air conditioner all the way up and run it for a long time while they drive because it feels so nice to get a good cold blast while the weather outside is scorching hot. Unfortunately, making your air conditioner work as hard as it can for extended periods of time is hard on it.
You can reduce the burden a little bit by running your system on low (or at least as low as you can while still staying comfortable). This is easier said than done at times, but some Tucson residents intentionally run their errands in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler because this makes it easier to stay comfortable. Other than that, your best bet is to get a car A/C tune-up before the months that will place the most demand on your system.
Car A/C Tune-up for Summer
Since running your car’s air conditioning on low isn’t always a great option when it’s extremely hot outside, it’s important to make sure everything is in good shape and ready for the hard work. Suppose you bring your car in for regularly schedule A/C maintenance. In that case, the technician can look at a variety of different components to see if your system is experiencing any of the most common problems:
- Check the refrigerant levels, recharge if needed, and look for leaks in the system that could cause your refrigerant to get low.
- Look into the status of the blower to make sure it’s clean and functional.
- Confirm that the inner controls are working as expected.
- Examine related components like the radiator coolant operation, hoses, thermostat, and pressure radiator cap.
- Inspect the compressor belt.
- Perform a cooling system pressure test and confirm that the A/C pressure meets specifications from the manufacturer.
- Measure the temperature coming from the internal vents.
How Do I Know if My Car Is Having Air Conditioning Problems?
The more proactive you can be, the better. If you’re not taking your vehicle in for regularly scheduled maintenance, it’s even more important to know about the early warning signs that it’s time for car A/C repair:
- It doesn’t blow as cold as it used to or doesn’t get cool as quickly as it used to.
- The air coming out smells musty, mildewy, or otherwise unpleasant in any way.
- The defroster doesn’t work or takes a long time.
- The air conditioning in your car only works when you’re driving, and it stops being effective when you’re at a standstill.
- You notice your car air conditioning system blowing hot air.
- Even when you turn the fan setting all the way up, you can barely feel any cool air coming out of the vents.
What Do You Do if Your A/C Goes Out in the Summer?
If this happens to you in Arizona, it means you’re going to want emergency car A/C repair as soon as you can get it. If your car is parked in the sun with the windows up while the temperature is 100°F, the temperature inside your car can reach levels over 150°F. Since Tucson regularly reaches high temperatures of roughly 110°F or more every summer, the temperature in your vehicle will be even higher than 150°F.
Not only is it uncomfortable to sit in heat that extreme, but it’s also dangerous. You might be tempted to try to save some money by rolling the windows down to catch a breeze while you drive, but that isn’t the best plan if you have any interest at all in being comfortable in your car. Instead, bring your vehicle to a reliable mechanic who can see what’s wrong with your car’s air conditioning and get it working again as soon as possible. Every day you procrastinate is a day your car stays hot, so find a vehicle service center in Tucson today.
Where Can I Get My A/C Checked?
Most places that work on cars, from Tucson’s used car dealerships to your local auto repair shop, can provide car A/C repair. With that in mind, we recommend choosing a place that has a great reputation in the community. Since the air conditioning is so important when it comes to keeping you cool, it’s probably best not to trust the job to someone unless you know they can do it right. Beyond that, it’s also a time-sensitive issue, so look for someone who will let you schedule service right away.
Save Money on A/C Repair at Cactus Auto
Here at Cactus Auto , we pride ourselves on offering the best deals. That isn’t just when it comes to buying a used car, either. We also offer excellent prices for the most common maintenance, including car A/C repair. While our prices are always good, you can save even more money today by checking for our car repair and service coupons !
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Used Car Inspection Checklist
Used Car Inspection Checklist
Finding the perfect used car can provide excellent value for your money, but it is wise to have a used car inspection checklist to guide you through evaluating used vehicles as you shop. Here are several factors to consider when investing in a used vehicle.
Check Mileage
US drivers’ average mileage is around 13,500 miles per year, so anything more may mean that the potential vehicle has above average mileage for its model year. If this is the case, you may be able to get a discount on a higher-mileage vehicle.
Check the Vehicles’ History Report
Getting a vehicle history report from CARFAX is an excellent start for investigating any accidents, damages, or other types of claims made on the vehicle. The long-term effects of any such damage should factor into your purchase decision.
Examine for Rust and Paint Discoloration
Sometimes rust is just an aesthetic issue. However, it can also indicate that there are costly underlying problems. Check the frame, under the hood, and undercarriage for rust because it could be a sign of integrity issues with the vehicle.
Paint jobs can also give buyers information about a used car’s history. If you notice a lack of uniformity in the color or condition of vehicle panels, it likely means that there was damage and replaced panels.
Open the Hood
In addition to checking for rust under the hood, there are several other key indicators of a car’s condition, history, and maintenance.
- Belts: Check them for wear because frayed or torn belts need to receive replacements.
- Battery: inspect the area for leaks, correct contacts, corrosion, or damaged cables
- Oil levels: Check the oil level and find out if the oil has been recently changed or if it needs to be added to service before purchasing.
- Transmission fluid: Verify the levels are high and that the color is clear and reddish.
- Brake fluid: If the brake fluid levels are low, it could indicate that the brakes are worn or may need repairs.
- Antifreeze: Ensure that the color is clear and there is no oil contamination.
Tire Inspection – Examine for Wear
The standard coin tread depth test is a quick and efficient way to check the tread on tires. If the tread appears worn down, it may indicate that the tires may need replacement soon, and if the wear is uneven on the tires, it could indicate a problem with the vehicle’s alignment. Both of these could end up costing you more and should be considered.
Undercarriage & Leaks on the Ground
When checking the undercarriage for rust, check it for any signs of leakage. Leak repairs can add up quickly, and if you notice leaks, you may be able to negotiate a better price.
Driving Test
A test drive gives you the opportunity to notice many things, from warning lights or check engine lights, to strange sounds, to odd vibrations or jerkiness. Try to drive on different road surfaces and allow for different speeds and start-stop opportunities so that you can notice if the steering wheel turns to one side or vibrates or if the brakes have a good feel. Check the parking brake, and feel if the gear shift on a manual vehicle is smooth.
Test Drive Used Cars in Tucson
If you are looking for a diverse selection of used vehicles in Tucson, AZ, Cactus Auto encourages you to bring your used car checklist down and take a test drive with our friendly and honest staff. Contact us today for more information. We are prepared to help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle.
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4 Reasons Why Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle is Better
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
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
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
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!
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