Figuring out used cars in Utah doesn’t have to be a pain. Just like anywhere else, when you buy a used car in Utah, it can be a great choice if you’re looking to save money. With the economy the way it currently is, buying a brand new car can seem like a waste of money. There are plenty of options when it comes to used cars in Utah, but be sure to read the following six tips before you make a purchase.
Utah Lemon Law and Used Cars
Lemon Laws are laws that protect individuals for a short time from unlawful dealings. For example, if you buy a car and are taking part in a five-year payment plan, your car must last the five years it takes to complete the payments. Often, these laws will prevent customers from losing lots of money due to a manufacturing flaw. Lemon Laws usually result in refunds, replacements or cash compensation.
That being said, before you begin looking at used cars in Utah and expect the Lemon Laws to protect you from an unlawful sale, be sure you understand the limitations of these laws in Utah. Unfortunately, individuals are only protected by Lemon Laws in Utah if they have purchased a new car and that car is under warranty. Used cars in Utah are unprotected.
Because of this, never rush into a purchase. Ask lots of questions regarding the mileage of the car, about how well the car has been maintained, and what condition the car is in. Simply, used cars in Utah tend to be final sale, especially from private sellers.
Cold Weather and Used Cars in Utah
Another thing that’s very important to keep in mind when looking at used cars in Utah is how the weather can affect the cars. While Utah isn’t the coldest state in the USA, cars are still affected by cold weather there and this can affect how well a used car operates. Cold weather is known to decrease a car’s battery efficiency. In fact, if a car battery is older than four years it could die simply from being in cold weather. Knowing how old used cars are in Utah can help you determine whether sudden cold weather will affect your car’s battery in a negative way.
Cold weather can also affect the engine and transmission lubricants. If you find that in cold weather the lubricants in your used car become chilled and inefficient, this probably isn’t because of a seller’s dishonesty. Realize that, sometimes, cold weather slows down cars, regardless of whether they are new or used.
Used Car Dealerships versus Private Sellers
(Also See Our Article on “Buying A Car In Utah: New and Used Car Guide”
When looking at used cars in Utah, it is also important to know the difference between looking at a used car dealership and looking to buy from a private seller. In Utah, you can expect to pay more money for a used car if you are going through a used car dealership than if you are buying from a private seller. However, it is important to realize that going through a private seller simply because you want to pay less money for your car isn’t always a smart choice.
Buying from a used car dealership in Utah is safer. All cars in a used car dealership in Utah have been licensed by the Utah Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division (UMVED), which means that they have been inspected and repaired properly. A used car dealership is also more likely to disclose whether a car has been salvaged. If you go through a used car dealership in Utah, it does mean that you are less likely to need to pay for repairs soon after purchase. The additional benefit is that most used car dealerships in Utah will have a return policy; private sellers will not offer this.
The Best Used Car Dealerships in Utah
Utah has many used car dealerships, so if you decide to go down this path instead of a private seller, you have lots of options. Of course, some used car dealerships are known for being more honest and respectable than others. If you are looking at used cars in Utah and want good value for your money, it is important that you know of some of the most respected used car dealerships in Utah, including CarCompass.
Selling Price versus Cash Price
If you decide to go through a private seller in Utah, be aware that the price is not necessarily set in stone. Sometimes owners want to get rid of their car quickly and they are willing to negotiate a price. If you can buy a used car in cash, and you can offer the seller your cash immediately, you might be able to walk away with a fantastic deal.
Always Check Out the Vehicle Before You Buy It
Regardless of whether you are looking at used cars in Utah or in a different state, always check out the vehicle before you buy it. Make sure you know about the car’s history, whether it has regularly been serviced, and whether it has been in any accidents. A reliable seller should allow you to get the car inspected independently before purchase. Also, be sure you take the car for a test-drive before you buy.
With these six tips, you should have no trouble finding the best used car in Utah that will meet your needs. As long as you ask questions, follow your instincts, and don’t rush into a purchase, you should be happy with your used car.
