Not everyone can manage to buy a new car. And most often, people start their car ownership with a used car and buy a brand new one only after saving enough. Owning a car is not an easy task; there is a need for maintenance, repair, and constant upkeep. But paying attention while buying the car can help. Here are six key factors to keep in mind before purchasing a used car.  Budget Budget is one of the first things to consider while buying a used car. Most people tend to make emotional or impulsive choices when making a decision and often end up overspending. It might be difficult to stay objective when there is a car you like or when you are in a tricky situation of bargaining the price of a used car. One of the most important reasons people look for used cars is because they are on a tight budget. So, to make a rational decision, it is essential to be practical and identify how much money you can spend on a used car. If you are going to take a loan, talk to an expert and evaluate your credit score to know how much loan you are eligible for if going for financing.

If you want to purchase a used car, you are not alone since it is a booming market with hugely advantageous deals. Getting a pre-owned vehicle is not only more economical, you can save on registration fees, taxes, and depreciation. That said, it is high on maintenance and can put you in a debt cycle if you select the wrong one. So, here is a list of things to check before buying a used car. Key factors to check when buying a used car Get the vehicle’s history The foremost step is to check the history report of the used car. You will need the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number for this. A vehicle history report helps you understand its collision history, flood or fire damage, clear title status, ownership details, odometer readings, maintenance and service history, sales information, and recalls. Conduct an interior and exterior inspection Once you are satisfied with the vehicle history, you need to conduct a thorough interior and exterior inspection. Check the wheel rims and hubcaps for curb rash and inspect the paint color for scratches. You also need to inspect the condition of the lights, steering wheel, brake, accelerator, upholstery, windows, and driver controls, among other things.