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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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Buying a used car can be stressful, in part because there are so many options, and it’s hard to know where to go. You can buy a car online, buy from a private seller, or go to a new car dealership. Many people prefer to buy used vehicles at independent dealerships, though. If you’re on the fence, learn more about the advantages of these used dealerships and how you can get the best deal on a used car.

Benefits of Independent Dealerships

There are a lot of different reasons people visit independent used car 87dealerships. These local car lots are known for having strong relationships with the communities, and there are a number of benefits associated with that. The following four things are the top advantages of independent dealerships:

• Better Deals
• Better Selections
• Better Service
• Used Car Financing

Better Deals

Finding a great deal is the top reason to buy a used car. Independent used car dealers often have the very best prices around because they have lower overhead. Since they also have more comprehensive selections (more on this below), you’re likely to find a vehicle at just about any budget.

Better Selections

Find A Car!

If you visit a dealership from a manufacturer, you’ll mostly find that manufacturer’s cars. This isn’t a big deal if you’re committed to that one brand, but otherwise, it can limit your selection. An independent dealership can carry just about any make or model, which means you’ll have a lot more choices. If you wish to find the best car without caring about the brand, visit an independent dealer. You can even ask them to keep an eye out for a specific type of vehicle for you.

Better Service

Big dealerships that sell vehicles from the major manufacturers are extensions of international brands. While their employees may be just as friendly, these dealerships provide standardized service based on the instructions of a manufacturer. An independent used car dealership in Tucson, however, will be completely focused on this one community.

Used Car Financing

Getting a used car loan can be difficult, especially if your credit is less than perfect. When you shop at an independent dealership, their used car financing experts know what it takes to get a car loan in Tucson. You may be able to get a better loan by visiting an independent dealership, especially since they’re so willing to work with you.

Tips for Buying a Car From an Independent Dealership

Once you’ve decided to visit a used dealership without any brand affiliation, start planning your visit. If you want to know how to get the best deal on a used car, you can follow a few simple tips. Plan to follow these four tips, and you’ll get a great deal on your used car.

1 – Do Some Research

Like most things, buying a new car is a lot easier if you’ve done your homework. When you shop at an independent dealership, you’ll be exposed to all different kinds of makes and models from throughout the years. You’ll find late-model SUVs mixed in with value sedans from years back, and some people say this is harder to navigate than a lineup of new cars from a single brand.

Thinking about the best type of vehicle for your needs will help you narrow things down. Consider all of the following:

• How old would you like your car to be? Some drivers only want a used model from the last few years.
• What body style is the best fit for your lifestyle? This will help you narrow your choices down to sedans, trucks, SUVs, hatchbacks, or some other category.
• Would you like a vehicle from a particular brand? If you’re committed to a certain brand, you can still make that work when you shop at an independent dealership.

2 – Negotiate for a Used Car

The research you do will also make it easier to negotiate. This is especially important when you buy a used car at an independent dealership because they’re often more willing to negotiate than the salespeople at a brand-specific dealership. Remember that the salesperson is working with you, not against you, especially when you shop at a used car dealership with trustworthy employees. Still, you’ll get the best deal on a used car if you come prepared and use all of the information at your disposal. Don’t be afraid to get out your smartphone and check prices online once you decide which used car is best for you.

3 – Check for Recalls and Salvage Titles

Once you find the used car you want, look into it by checking the vehicle identification number (VIN). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be able to show you whether there’s a recall for your specific vehicle. The dealership should also be disclosing any recalls and letting you know whether they’ve made the associated repairs.

Also, look for the words “salvage title” on the vehicle history report. A salvage title means that the vehicle has been repaired after an insurance company determined it was totaled. The nice thing about working with a reputable used car dealership with deep community ties is that they’ll want to be completely upfront with you about the vehicle’s condition and history. Check the used dealership’s reviews if you’re not sure about them.

4 – Inspect the Car’s Condition

Depending on where you shop, the vehicle should have already been inspected and prepared for a new owner. Here at Cactus Auto, for example, we have our skilled mechanics inspect vehicles after we buy used cars with cash. We won’t sell anything we don’t have faith in, and we even provide two years of free maintenance on every vehicle we sell.

Still, used cars do occasionally come with some light wear. Someone has driven this vehicle before, so there might be slight imperfections throughout the interior or exterior. Our used car experts have deemed that every car on our lot is ready for the road, but you should still look it over to make sure everything is up to your standards.

Used Dealership in Tucson

Here at Cactus Auto, we’re one of the leading independent dealerships in Arizona. When you visit our used car dealership in Tucson, you’ll be greeted with friendly service, low prices, and a massive selection of used vehicles for sale. Drivers who are on the fence about multiple options can rest easy because of our 72-hour exchange program. If you’re not completely happy with the vehicle you picked, you can exchange it for another vehicle within three days– no fees and no gimmicks.

Our team at Cactus Auto has been serving Tucson and all of the surrounding areas for more than 30 years now, and we feel a deep connection with this community. Our convenient location on Prince Road makes it easy to get to us from just about anywhere, even if you’re coming from outside of town. When you meet our honest employees and see how convenient it can be to buy a used car, you’ll be glad you chose to do business with an independent car dealership. Stop by and see us today!

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In most of Arizona, including a city like Tucson, a car is a necessity for getting around. There are many purchasing options available, including both new and used vehicles. If you are thinking about purchasing pre-owned, the following buying tips can help you.

Why Buy a Used Car?

Before seeking advice on buying a used car, consider why you would want to purchase a pre-owned vehicle in the first place. The primary consideration may be economic. New cars are running $34,000 on average. That can put you into some serious debt, especially if you also have a house with a mortgage. Used cars usually cost a fraction of the price and are often nearly as good as new models.

Not only are new cars expensive, but they also do not hold their value. They start depreciating dramatically as soon as you drive them off the lot. Due to depreciation, you may soon be underwater on your car loan, meaning that the vehicle is worth less than what you owe on it. Used cars have already gone through the worst of their depreciation and so do not lose as much value.

Tips for Buying a Used Car You Actually Want

The selection of used cars at dealerships in Tucson, even the smaller ones, is almost as wide as the selection of new cars. Therefore, it is more than likely that the used vehicle you want is out there. The following buy used car tips can help you find it and make sure it is everything you expect it to be.

Step 1: Set Your Budget

A good place to start is to figure out how much you can afford for your monthly car payment before you even start going to dealerships to look at cars. This allows you to narrow your search to vehicles in your price range and prevents you from falling in love with a vehicle that turns out to be out of your reach.

You should spend no more than 20% of your monthly income on car expenses. That includes everything, including fuel, insurance, and repairs. Therefore, your car payment should account for no more than 15% of your take-home pay on a monthly basis.

Step 2: Find Your Ideal Car

Make a list of things that you need from your vehicle as well as things that you want. The car you end up with should meet all of your needs and give you as many of the things you want as possible. If it can meet all your wants and needs, that would be ideal, but it may not be possible depending on your budget.

Step 3: Shop for a Used Car

One of the most important tips is to concentrate your search on independent, family-owned dealerships rather than big corporate outfits or private sellers. Independent dealerships offer friendly, focused service while still being accountable to you. The selection is similar to what you would find at a big dealership, while the service you receive is more personal.

Step 4: Figure Out the Used Car’s Value

There are a couple of ways to figure out the value of a used car. One is to compare it to previous sales of the same make and model. This gives you a reasonable price range within which to work.

Each car, pickup, or SUV sold in the United States has a unique vehicle identification number. A VIN search on a website such as Carfax can tell you about the vehicle’s history, such as whether it has been in any accidents, which could affect its value.

Step 5: Inspect the Used Car Yourself

Be sure that the vehicle you want is in good condition before you commit to buying. Inspect the vehicle yourself or take it to an independent mechanic for a professional evaluation.

Step 6: Go for a Test Drive

The test drive is intended to show you how the car handles under various circumstances. Therefore, you should take it over different types of terrain and on different roadways with a wide range of speed limits to give you an accurate representation of its performance.

Want To Save a Little Extra Money?

If you have your heart set on a new vehicle, you can save some money by first leasing it and then buying out the lease near the end of its term. Here are some buy used car tips for buying out a lease:

• Let the leasing company make the first move; they will usually call you about 90 days before the lease’s expiration date.
• Assess the car’s worth, including both wholesale and retail value.
• Think about the timing of the lease, as you may spend more on an early buyout.
• Shop around for financing to get the best price.

Cactus Auto offers a wide variety of used autos in Tucson . Search on our website or visit our facility today.

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