Questions to ask when buying a used car in Illinois

Buying a pre-owned car in the Land of Lincoln? There are more complexities to consider than whatever vehicle draws your eye. There are various questions to ask before deciding if it is worth test-driving or buying a used car. The more knowledge you have, the more confident that the car you choose will be the best option for you. Here are a few useful questions to ask when buying a used car in Illinois.

What is the odometer’s mileage?

Inquiring about the car’s mileage can offer you a good idea of the overall wear and tear, depreciation, and worth. Take, for example, a 5-year-old car with 126,000 miles on the odometer. The average person in Illinois drives about 12,600 miles a year, so 10 times that in five years is a sign the vehicle has received more wear and tear.

Who drove the car and where?

Different driving habits will have an impact on a car’s condition. A juvenile driver who uses the car to make deliveries every day, for example, is likely to put more strain on the system than a person who uses it to shop for groceries once a week. A truck that has seen a lot of heavy off-roading might need a new front-end kit or could be due for maintenance sooner than expected. The odometer is one thing, but a clear idea of how the car was driven will further help you find potential problems.

Where is the vehicle history report?

Accidents, open recalls, the car’s past owners, and service history are all included in a vehicle history report, which can help you decide whether a pre-owned automobile is right for you. All you need is the vehicle identification number or license plate number to check a report online. You can receive one for free from a trustworthy Illinois used car dealer.

What is the exterior and interior condition?

Image used with permission via Volkswagen US Media Site

When buying a used car, it’s a good idea to inquire about the vehicle’s general condition, not just the essential parts. Images of the interior are particularly helpful since it’s easy to miss interior issues during a test drive. If there are images to look at, make a note of them and bring copies so you can compare them with the vehicle in person. If there are discrepancies, such as scratches that weren’t in the pictures, consider that a warning.

How long can I test drive?

Resist the urge to rush through the test driving process. You’ll want to make sure you’re at ease in the car. Inquire about taking it for a longer test drive or storing it overnight. If the seller doesn’t agree, no problem. The purpose of the test is to ensure that the vehicle meets your demands and matches your lifestyle. You can find a dealer or seller who allows you to take your time and test a vehicle as much as you need to feel comfortable.

Was the car bought in another state?

When bringing a car into Illinois, one must utilize form RUT-25 if you purchased it from a dealer, lending institution, leasing firm, or another retailer. A copy of the bill of sale or other proof of the purchase price should be attached. There could be further complexities that an independent seller might not have accounted for. Overall, the most convenient choice is to stick to cars that were bought new in Illinois.

Has the car been modified in any way?

Modifying a car from its factory specifications can have a big impact on its performance, driving experience, and warranty coverage. You might be willing to pay more for a vehicle with modifications that suit your taste. If it has a feature you don’t want, meanwhile, that could be a negotiation point toward a better vehicle when shopping at a dealer. With individual sellers, you don’t know if the changes were installed by a professional technician. We strongly recommend getting the vehicle inspected by a competent mechanic, ideally one of your choice.

Does this version have XYZ feature?

Before you go to see a car in person, one thing to keep in mind is whether or not it has any unique characteristics that are important to you. Often, standout features only appear on certain trim levels. If you’re after things like auto-dimming mirrors, heated or ventilated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, or keyless entry, some models and years might only have them on specific trims. Researching these things can be overwhelming, so feel free to just ask a seller about the specific features you want.

How did you prepare this car for sale?

Most vehicle sellers will give you a blank stare if you ask them this question. The most the average driver will do when selling a car is give it a wash or light detailing. When you pay thousands of dollars for a vehicle, you should expect more. Dealers have more resources to elevate a pre-owned car’s condition, taking years off its appearance and restoring that like-new appeal.

Used cars can have a fantastic value for money as long as you take the time and hunt for the best deal possible. When shopping for a used car, asking for a vehicle history report is great. However, the 10 questions above will get you much farther along. In general, doing business with a well-staffed, trusted dealership can make a lot of these questions unnecessary since they will answer them before you even have to ask. At Volkswagen of Marion, our sales team goes above and beyond to help find the best used vehicle for you. Contact VW of Marion if you’d like assistance picking your next pre-owned car.