What Are the Right Questions to Ask During the Car Sales Process?
The car sales process tends to be more stressful and hazardous than many think it will be. Not every sales team takes a customer-centric approach to the sales process. That’s why, as a car shopper, you can best protect yourself by doing your own due diligence and research.
What’s the price?
This isn’t as straightforward as just looking at the sticker. Beyond the base price, you also need to factor in taxes, your financing plan’s cost (interest rates, monthly payments, etc.) and any other extraneous fees, like documentation and registration fees.
What’s the car’s history?
Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to review the pre-owned model’s history, including any previous accidents or title issues. At Easterns Automotive, many of our models are only two or three years old with only tens of thousands of miles. Our maintenance team thoroughly inspects and repairs our models before listing them to ensure our customers receive a high-quality vehicle built to last. We’re committed to ensuring every buyer gets a car that will reliably last them for years in the future.
Is there a warranty?
While used cars typically don’t have a warranty, a certified pre-owned vehicle from a dealership should have one. If the car is still relatively new and qualifies as a certified pre-owned vehicle, be sure to get information on the existing manufacturer warranty and find out how long it will last. Regardless of whether one of our cars has a warranty or not, Easterns Automotive provides a seven-day return policy and 30-day / 1,000-mile warranty to give our shoppers peace of mind that we will promptly address any potential issues.
Can I take it on a test drive?
The best way to confirm if the car performs as advertised is to take it on a test drive. Shoppers are more than welcome to stop by one of our dealerships to try out any of the vehicles in our inventory. We thoroughly examine our models’ engines, cabins and exteriors to ensure their comfort, performance and reliability exceed expectations.
Has the car had any recent repairs or part replacements?
What exactly was repaired or replaced and why? Was it due to an accident, wear and tear or a manufacturer recall? Gleaning any recent repairs or part replacements can give you insight into the car’s condition and potential future maintenance needs.
Can I have the car inspected by an independent mechanic?
An independent mechanic’s inspection can reveal hidden issues or potential problems that some dealerships might not be willing to disclose. Having a vehicle inspected by your own mechanic may allow you to feel confident that you’re making a sound purchase where you’re fully aware of the facts.
What is the trade-in value of my current car?
Knowing the trade-in value of your current vehicle can give you negotiating power while shopping for an upgrade, increasing your chances of securing a fair price for your next vehicle. The certified pre-owned cars at Easterns Automotive are guaranteed to give you a valuable recoup on your investment, as we only list models that we’re confident will exceed the manufacturer’s standards so they will retain a high resale or trade-in value.
What is the base qualifying credit score for this vehicle?
At Easterns Automotive, we don’t deny car shoppers a vehicle because their credit scores aren’t perfect. As the “Where Your Job is Your Credit™” dealership, all we need is proof of employment. Our well-connected auto financing team will utilize our network of banks and lenders to help you get competitive financing for a reliable used vehicle that still has many years and miles of life ahead of it.
#1 Certified Pre-Owned Dealership for Reliable Vehicles and Competitive Financing in D.C. and Baltimore
The team at Easterns Automotive has won DealerRater’s “Consumer Satisfaction Award” for seven years in a row. We’re ready to help you find a car and payment plan that suits your needs and fits with your life. Browse our vast inventory online or in person at one of our dealerships today.
