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What Should Be the First 3 Things to Do After Buying a Used Car?

September 29, 2023

Congratulations on your recent purchase of a used car! Whether it's your first or fifth, the excitement of getting behind the wheel of a new set of wheels is undeniable. However, before you hit the road, there are some essential tasks you need to take care of to ensure a smooth and safe journey with your "new" used car.

Inspect and Document

The first thing you should do after driving your newly acquired used car home is a thorough inspection. Think of it as a getting-to-know-you session with your vehicle. Here's how to do it:

Exterior Inspection: Walk around the car, looking for any visible damage, scratches, or dents. Note them down or take pictures. This documentation can be handy in case you ever need to make a claim.
Interior Check: Step inside and check the interior. Ensure all the features and functions are working correctly, from the air conditioning to the radio. Don't forget to inspect the seats, carpets, and the condition of the dashboard.
Under the Hood: Pop the hood and check the engine, hoses, and belts for any signs of wear or damage. Look for any leaks or unusual noises. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it's a good idea to have a mechanic inspect it.
Tire Inspection: Examine the tires for proper inflation and signs of wear. Make sure the spare tire and jack are present and in good condition.

Review the Vehicle's History

Next up, it's time to get to know your car's past. Reviewing the vehicle's history is crucial to understanding any potential issues and maintenance needs. Start with verifying that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the car matches the one on the title and paperwork. This ensures you have the right vehicle.

If the seller hasn't already provided them, request maintenance and repair records. These documents can reveal if the car has been well taken care of or if it has a history of issues.

Pro Tip: Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can provide you with a comprehensive vehicle history report. This report can uncover important details, such as accidents, title issues, and more.

Transfer Ownership and Update Documentation

Now that you've inspected your car and have a better understanding of its history, it's time to handle the paperwork and make the car officially yours:

Visit your local DMV or equivalent agency to transfer the title into your name.
Contact your insurance provider to add your new car to your policy or to get a new policy if you're switching providers.
Make sure your car's registration is up-to-date and displays your name as the owner.

The last thing you can do is to visit Crown City Tire Auto Care for a thorough inspection of all things under the hood. You can contact us by phone call, through our website, or why not visit straight away?

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