Used Car Buying Checklist
Whether you're searching for a budget‑friendly commuter or a family‑ready SUV, our used car buying checklist at Nissan 24 provides every step, from planning to paperwork, to make your used car purchase smooth.
Tick off each item below and drive away confident in your choice of a quality pre‑owned or Certified Pre‑Owned (CPO) Nissan near Brockton, Easton, Stoughton, and Hanover, Massachusetts.
Step One: Plan a Used Car Buying Budget
The first critical step in your used car journey is setting a clear budget and defining your goals. We recommend calculating your total purchase budget, including sales tax, registration fees, dealer prep, and any immediate maintenance, so you know exactly how much you can spend.
Let us help you find a used Nissan fitting your used car buying wishlist and wallet.
Step Two: Research Used Cars
Before you visit the lot, invest time in researching models and dealers.* Start by comparing Nissan makes and models through:
- Reliability ratings
- Owner forums
- Expert reviews
Use our pre‑owned inventory online to filter by year, mileage, price, and more. Gather important documents and streamline the buying process.
Step Three: Choose Between Pre-Owned and CPO
Deciding between Certified Pre‑Owned (CPO) and standard pre-owned is a key choice.
For example, each CPO Nissan includes extended factory‑backed warranty coverage and complimentary roadside assistance—from towing and lockout service to flat tire changes.
Standard used vehicles receive a thorough dealer inspection but lack factory warranties, making them more budget‑friendly at the sticker price.
When you shop with us, you can have confidence in the quality and reliability of your next used car.
Step Four: Read a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™
A transparent vehicle history builds trust and prevents surprises after purchase. Always request the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ to check for accident history, previous owners, and more.
With a complete history, you’ll drive away with peace of mind.
Step Five: Schedule a Used Car Test Drive
Your test drive is where you validate comfort, performance, and functionality. Begin with a thorough exterior and interior inspection, checking body panels, paint consistency, tire tread depth, upholstery condition, and trim alignment.
During the drive, evaluate acceleration, braking responsiveness, steering precision, suspension compliance, and noise levels for different road conditions.
Invest in reliability by getting to know your used car for sale.
Step Six: Apply for Used Car Financing
Securing the right financing is crucial to your purchase. Compare loan offers from banks and credit unions, and use our payment calculator to estimate monthly payments based on your down payment, interest rate, and loan duration.
Apply online to learn more about your used car’s financial terms.
Step Seven: Finalize Your Offer
Once you’ve chosen your vehicle and secured financing, it’s time to finalize the paperwork. Carefully review the sales contract, warranty documents, financing agreement, and title transfer to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Then collect your keys, buckle up, and enjoy the confidence from a checklist‑driven, transparent buying experience.
FAQs
What’s the ideal mileage for a reliable used car?
Many used Nissan models deliver dependable performance well past 100,000 miles when regular maintenance is documented.
How does a CPO warranty differ from an extended warranty?
CPO coverage is factory‑backed and included at purchase; extended warranties are optional plans you add for extra mechanical protection.
Can I trade in my current vehicle for a used purchase?
Bring your title and maintenance records for an appraisal that applies directly to your down payment.
Read Through Our Used Car Buying Checklist Today
Use our used car buying checklist to help you get on the road near Brockton, Easton, Stoughton, and Hanover, MA. Contact us at Nissan 24 so you can take out your used car for fun to D.W. Field Park.
How Can We Help?
* Indicates a required field