Guide to Buying a Used Car

If you’ve been looking around for dependable used vehicles, you might be wondering how the process of buying a used car works. Check out this used car buying guide for drivers in Jacksonville Beach and the surrounding areas to ensure it’s a smooth journey.

1. Determine Your Budget.

Before you start to shop around, it’s important to take a serious look at your budget and determine how much you can spend. If you’re buying from a private seller, you’ll probably have to come up with all of the money up front, but if you buy from a dealer, you’ll have financing and lease options available to you.

2. Decide What Kind of Car You Need.

Do you need a large vehicle that can transport your family and all their stuff on vacation and to school and sporting events? A large crossover SUV or minivan will do the trick. Looking for an affordable and efficient way to get to and from work? Check out some compact sedans. Ready to splurge on something flashy? Check out a sports coupe or convertible.

3. Find a Seller You Can Trust.

Buying from a private seller can sometimes make sense, but it lacks the certainty and convenience that comes with buying from a dealer. Dealerships have well-documented reputation and consumer reports that you can look at – not to mention conveniences like service centers, special financing, and cash back offers. And at a dealership like Arlington Toyota, your used vehicle will undergo a thorough inspection so you know exactly what you’re purchasing.

couple signing documents
couple holding car keys

4. Test Drive the Car.

When you test drive a used car, it’s important to check for various things, including the quality of the brakes, functioning of the electronics, and any potential sounds coming from the engine or underbody. You can also ask for a vehicle history report to see how the vehicle has been treated over the years.

car key in the ignition
woman holding car keys

Get a Great Deal on a Dependable Used Vehicle Today!

At Arlington Toyota, we have a full lineup of high-quality used cars for sale, and drivers in Atlantic Beach and the surrounding areas can test drive any of them here at our dealership in Jacksonville, FL. We also have a variety of affordable financing options available.

February 26, 2018
Back to Parent Page