Out of all the things that stress us out, shopping for a car is probably near the top of most people’s list. Throwing the “used” factor in there can add a whole new level of anxiety.

It doesn’t have to be that way, though. The best way to beat stress is to stay well informed. But in a market where you naturally feel at a disadvantage, where do you start? Here’s a quick guide from Cox Chevy on learning how to educate yourself and stay confident in the used car shopping process. We’ve been in the car business in Bradenton for over 80 years, so we’ve learned learned a thing or two about proper customer care.

Know What You’re Looking For

You have probably browsed a few online inventories and been completely overwhelmed by the options available. Before you even start, you should make a list of criteria you’re looking for in a car. This list should include details you’re willing to be flexible on, such a car color, and those you’re more firm about, such as price. Cox Chevy has an easy-to-navigate used car inventory that allows you to search by some of these important terms. Here are a few things you should consider on your list:

• Vehicle Type, Make, Model, and Year
• Color
• Transmission style
• Price
• Mileage
• Fuel economy.

Read Vehicle History Reports

A vehicle history report like AutoCheck or CARFAX can give you a good look into what a vehicle has been through in the past. It can key you into recorded maintenance, past accidents, and how hard the car has been driven. This is a good indicator of how long a vehicle will last and how good of a deal you’re getting.

Research the value

When considering a vehicle, be sure to look at its current market value. Resources like Kelley’s Blue Book can give you an idea of what a used vehicle might be worth. This way you can make sure you aren’t being cheated.

Take a Test Drive at Cox Chevy

The best way to get a feel for a car is to take it for a test drive. We encourage you to stop by our dealership in Bradenton to check out what we have to offer! Cox Chevy is located on Cortez Road West, just a quarter of a mile to the west of the Sweetbay Supermarket. Got questions? Feel free to contact the Cox family.