Used Car Buying Tips

If you're in the market for a used car in North Carolina right now, you're not alone. Many people are searching for replacement vehicles after the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. While most sellers are honest, unfortunately, some may try to take advantage of the situation. With so much to handle after the storm, spotting a scam might not be as easy as it normally would be. The last thing you need is to spend your hard-earned money on a car that could fall apart or has hidden issues that may put you or your family at risk.

So what can you do to make sure the used car you’re thinking about buying is a decent vehicle? You might be thinking, “I’ll just look at the Carfax report.” Carfax reports are great, and you should look at it, however you might be surprised to learn that there is a lot of information that doesn’t get reported to Carfax that a pre-purchase inspection can uncover, like unreported repairs from collisions, water damage, rust that is hidden or covered up, the condition of the tires, and dozens of other things with the potential to cause big issues down the road. 

The logical thing to do is to find an unbiased third party, such as an independent car appraiser, to do a pre-purchase inspection on the vehicle you’re considering. Auto Appraisal Network of Charlotte is not only an independent appraisal company, but certified by the National Automotive Appraisers Association (NAAA). We offer many different types of inspections, including pre-purchase inspections, diminished value and total loss appraisals, and appraisals to obtain financing.  

Our pre-purchase inspections are very thorough and we will uncover any potential safety concerns, check the structural integrity, safety features, electrical system, power train, suspension, fuel system, emissions, steering, heater, a/c, security system, exhaust, interior, wheels, tires and the state of general maintenance. We also look for hidden damage that could have been the result of an accident, water damage or excessively rough use of the vehicle. In extreme cases, our appraisers have uncovered repairs that weren’t done correctly, some of which could have been deadly. We’ve found well-concealed rust, signs of major water damage, foul odors and poorly done body work. We’ll let you know if the asking price is fair by looking at comparable, recently sold vehicles in the area. 

When purchasing a used car, especially after a traumatic event like a hurricane, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. Ensuring the vehicle is safe, reliable, and worth your investment should be a top priority. A thorough pre-purchase inspection provides peace of mind and protects you from potential costly repairs or safety hazards down the road. Whether you're a seasoned buyer or new to the process, it’s always smart to take that extra step to ensure you’re making a wise decision.

Don't risk buying a used car with hidden issues. Schedule your pre-purchase inspection in North Carolina with Auto Appraisal Network of Charlotte today, and drive away with confidence, knowing your vehicle is in top shape. Contact us now at (704) 703-4801 to book your inspection and ensure you're getting the best value for your money.