The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Car: What You Need to Know

Buying a used car can be a smart way to get a reliable vehicle at a great price. However, the process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. At Westshore Honda, we’re here to make the process easy for buyers in Tampa, Clearwater, and Lutz. This guide will help you understand how to find the best used car, what to check before purchasing, and how to secure financing.

1. Set Your Budget

Before you start shopping, determine how much you can afford. Consider the total cost, including:

• Down payment
• Monthly payments
• Insurance
• Taxes and fees
• Maintenance costs

If you're financing your used car, it’s essential to get pre-approved to understand your loan options. At Westshore Honda, we offer competitive financing for used vehicles.

2. Research the Best Used Cars

Certain vehicles are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value. Consider looking for:

• Honda Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles
• Low-mileage cars with a clean history
• Used cars with good resale value

3. Inspect the Vehicle Condition

Before buying a used car, inspect the following:

• Exterior and Interior: Look for dents, scratches, rust, and worn-out upholstery.
• Tires and Brakes: Uneven wear may indicate alignment or suspension issues.
• Engine and Transmission: Check for oil leaks, strange noises, or rough shifting.
• Technology and Features: Ensure all electronics, like backup cameras and infotainment systems, work properly.

Consider bringing a trusted mechanic for a professional inspection.

4. Take a Test Drive

A test drive will give you insight into how the vehicle performs. Pay attention to:

• Steering and handling
• Braking performance
• Acceleration and transmission shifts
• Unusual noises

Drive in both city traffic and on the highway to get a full feel of the car’s performance.

5. Check Vehicle History & Title

Always request a Vehicle History Report to check for:

• Previous accidents or major repairs
• Odometer fraud
• Ownership history
• Flood or salvage titles

At Westshore Honda, we provide transparent history reports on all of our used cars.

6. Understand the Financing Options

Used car financing is different from new car loans. Consider:

• • Loan terms and interest rates
• • Down payment requirements
• • Trade-in value for your current car

Our finance team at Westshore Honda works with multiple lenders to help you secure the best rates.

7. Finalize the Purchase

Once you’ve chosen your vehicle, finalize the paperwork. Key documents include:

• Bill of Sale
• Title transfer
• Loan agreement (if applicable)
• Extended warranty options

Why Buy a Used Car from Westshore Honda?

When you shop with Westshore Honda, you get:

• Certified Pre-Owned Honda models with warranties
• Comprehensive vehicle inspections
• Flexible financing options
• A hassle-free car-buying experience

Find Your Perfect Used Car Today!

Browse our used car inventory online or visit us in Tampa, FL. Contact us for a test drive or financing assistance!