Used cars can be a big money-saver if done right. Here are some tips to buy a used car and some of the best used car options for SUVs, compact cars and larger sedans.
The RAV4 was redone for 2016, and right off, the SE has a slightly sportier edge than other trim levels. (WTOP/Mike Parris)
The RAV4 was redone for 2016, and right off, the SE has a slightly sportier edge than other trim levels. (WTOP/Mike Parris)
Since new cars can depreciate by up to 40 percent after three years, used cars can be a big money-saver if done right.
WTOP got tips on how to search for a used car and which ones to focus on from Consumer Reports deputy auto editor John Linkov:
During the test drive, look for bucking, excessive bouncing over bumps, wind noise and whether the car’s engine offers enough performance. If the engine revs up but the car hesitates, that could be a sign of a slipping transmission.
“If you’ve really gotten it down to one [car] that you’re willing to pay for, ask the owner or ask the dealer if you can take it to a mechanic,” Linkov said. For about $100, a mechanic will tell you “whether it’s a lemon or a peach,” he said.
Check the history of the car through a vehicle history report. You can also try taking the vehicle identification number to a dealership and asking for the service history.
Consumer Reports recommends used models based on road test and reliability scores, and safety features.
Here are some of the best used car options for SUVs, compact cars and larger sedans:
Suggested SUVs include the Mazda CX-5. Pictured here is the 2018 Mazda CX-5.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
Suggested SUVs include the Toyota Rav4. Pictured here is the 2014 Toyota Rav4.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
Suggested SUVs include the Hyundai Tucson. Pictured here is the 2016 Hyundai Tucson.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
Suggested SUVs include the Honda CR-V. Pictured here is the 2017 Honda CR-V, in Detroit.
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
AP Photo/Paul Sancya
Suggested SUVs include the Lexus RX. Pictured here is the 2015 Lexus RX.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
The Mazda3 is a solid compact car option. Pictured here is the 2015 Mazda3 S Grand Touring.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
The Toyota Corolla is a solid compact car option. The Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe are also good, older options.
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
AP Photo/David Zalubowski
The Pontiac Vibe is a good, older option for a used compact car. Pictured here is a Pontiac Vibe.
(AP Photo/Orlin Wagner)
AP Photo/Orlin Wagner
The Toyota Matrix is a good, older option for a used compact car. Pictured here is a 2009 Toyota Matrix in Clinton Township, Mich., Feb. 4, 2010.
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
AP Photo/Paul Sancya
Top larger sedan options include the Toyota Camry. Pictured here is the 2017 Toyota Camry.
(WTOP/Mike Parris)
WTOP/Mike Parris
Ford Fusion is a solid larger sedan to buy used. The Ford Fusion hybrid is displayed at the North American International Auto Show, Monday, Jan. 11, 2016, in Detroit.
(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
AP Photo/Carlos Osorio
The Honda Accord is also a reliable large sedan option. This photo provided by Honda shows the 2017 Honda Accord.
(Courtesy of Honda Motor Co., Inc. via AP)
John Aaron is a news anchor and reporter for WTOP. After starting his professional broadcast career as an anchor and reporter for WGET and WGTY in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, he went on to spend several years in the world of sports media, working for Comcast SportsNet, MLB Network Radio, and WTOP.
