Buying a Used Car in 10 Easy Steps

October 4, 2021
Buying a Used Car in 10 Easy Steps

Buying a used car not only saves you money, but you will also be doing your part in helping the environment. So, it’s truly a win-win situation. 

But we also understand it can be a little bit daunting, especially if this your first time purchasing a car. To help, we’ve put together 10 easy steps to hopefully make the process go smoothly. 

Here are some tips to help you find a great used car.

  1. Figure Out What You Can Afford 

  2. Pick a Car That’s Best for You

  3. Find Used Car Prices 

  4. Work Out Financing

  5. Contact Seller

  6. Study the Vehicle History Report

  7. Test Drive the Vehicle

  8. Have the Vehicle Inspected

  9. Negotiation

  10. Make That Deal

Skip The Hassle! Get Expert Advice on any used vehicle with a pre-purchase inspection

1) Figure Out What You Can Afford

Buying a used car is often the most economically sound decision for a lot of people, but just like buying a new car, you still want to put a good amount of effort and research into it. Think about it. A car is a pretty big purchase, used or new. And unlike most big purchases, a car is not considered an investment. Your car is not going to appreciate its value or generate any sort of income for you, but it is considered an asset–even though its value depreciates. With that being said, it’s important you find a car that’s right for you and your budget.  

Before you start any research, it’s important to know where your price point is at. Ask yourself if you want to buy it outright and avoid monthly car payments. If you want to finance the car, how much are you willing to put down for a down payment? Typically, the more you put down as your down payment, the less your monthly payments will be. 

Keep in mind, a dealership is not the only place you can receive financing. Sometimes, it’s often cheaper to go another route.  If you have a good relationship with your bank, you can look into pulling a loan from them. Credit scores will also play a role in the interest rate, so just make sure you know what is best for you and your bank account.


2) Pick a Car That’s Best for You

Once you have a price and payment plan in mind, you can start researching what type of car best suits you. 

This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to find the car and fall in love instantly. This simply means finding a few good candidates that you like. Narrowing down the scope of options will help this feel a little less daunting and overwhelming. 

If you have little ones and find yourself playing soccer parent from time to time, a third row backseat would probably make your life easier. If this is a car for your teenager, Bluetooth and hands-free capabilities would be a great feature. (Though if you can’t find a car with Bluetooth, you can purchase devices that connect to a radio station to enable Bluetooth, making the car hands-free without the added cost from the dealership).

So, just research certain features that are a must for you and go from there. Luckily in the age of technology, Google is always our friend in these scenarios. However, if Google just isn’t giving you what you need, try this site!

We recommend keeping up with prices all throughout this process. Keep in mind, the more safety features a car has, the more expensive it’ll be. So, as you look for cars, be sure to remember your price point!


3) Find Used Car Pricings

At this point, you have found a few cars that you like. Next step: research prices. 

Before you do that, let’s talk about CPO. CPO stands for certified pre-owned vehicle, and that just means that the vehicle has been inspected to ensure safety qualifications, and if need be, dealers might do small repairs to ensure the car is working at its best capabilities. A certified pre-owned vehicle will also typically have an extended warranty based on mileage. With a used car, that is not the case. 

Because of this, certified pre-owned vehicles are more expensive because of these added qualifications. A used car is typically bought in an ‘as-is’ scenario. So, keep this in mind as you research prices. If you’re looking for an extended warranty and a car that has undergone inspections, you should probably be looking for certified pre-owned vehicles. 

 

4) Work Out Financing

Once you have the right car and pricing worked out, it’s time to get your financing situated. Ideally, if you’re not using financing through a dealership, it’s smart to have a loan pre-approved before you step foot into the dealership. 

You can absolutely get financing through the dealership, if that is the best option for you. However, please keep in mind that if you decide to pull a loan from a third party, you won’t be strapped down to one single seller or dealership. Getting your financing ready beforehand also shows the seller that you are seriously in the market for a new car instead of simply browsing.

Buying the car outright is also an option, and it is a good way to avoid monthly payments and interest rates. However, not everyone can afford to pay out right for a vehicle, new or used, so if that’s the case, financing is the answer.


5) Contact the Seller

Now, that you have a car that you like and a price that’s for your budget, you can now contact the seller. If the seller is a dealership, it’d be wise to give them a call to see if the car is available. If it’s a private party seller, you can use this opportunity to do the same thing. You should also use this time to ask a few questions about the vehicle itself.

 If the private party is an individual, perhaps you should ask them why they are selling the car. You should also see if they have the title and if the title is clean. If the title is not clean, it’s considered a salvage title. A salvage title means that something has happened to the car, whether it be accident, flood, or storm damage, and an insurance has declared that it is worth less than the amount needed to fix it. This is more colloquially known as totaled. 

Of course, if you go the dealership route, these nuances can probably be avoided, but the cars will end up being a skoosh more expensive.

So, in the end, you have to weigh the pros and cons of both buying options and see what’s best for you!


6) Study the Vehicle History Report

So, you’ve researched, got your financing, and spoken with the seller, and now it’s time to check out the car’s history report. 

For all cars, you will be able to find its history report through the VIN (vehicle identification number), and you will be able to see its accident record, title, and other things. You can do this through CarFax for easy and reliable reports. 

If you are buying through a private seller, this step is highly recommended to keep you informed about your purchase!


7) Test Drive the Vehicle

Have you ever driven someone else’s car and it just didn’t feel right? We’ve all been there. 

Most people are particular about the feel of a vehicle when they drive, and that’s why test driving is so important. It is also a great way to experience how the car drives. 

Also, take the time to truly inspect the car as you’re getting in. Use your senses. Does it smell alright? Do the seats feel okay? Is there substantial interior or exterior scratches? Keep in mind, with most used cars, there is going to be some wear and tear from previous owners, but you are comfortable with the severity of wear and tear in proportion to the amount you’re paying for the car. 


8) Have the Vehicle Inspected

Now, this step is not technically a necessity in the car buying business, but it is very, very much so recommended. 

Think about it, you inspect the car, and that’s great. It’s important to personally inspect the car, but even if you’re car savvy, it is still different from a professional inspection.

After a hiccup-free test drive, you know this is the car that you want. Well, that would be a great time to ask the seller if it’s okay if you have it inspected by a third party mechanic. Obviously if there were major hiccups during the test drive, a mechanic isn’t necessary because you won’t be interested in the car anymore.

For reliable mechanic inspections, ask the seller if it’s possible to get the car towed to Team Ryan. We’d be happy to inspect the car for you and make sure it’s running the best it possible can!

Helpful Tip: If the seller objects to this, that’s a good reason to be a bit wary of proceeding.


9) Negotiation

Next up, negotiating. It’s fair to say that this is probably the most daunting step of the all. Now, keep in mind, if you’re comfortable with the price set forth, stay with it. If you like to haggle, then by all means, haggle away–respectfully, of course. 

Here’s the best advice we can give you when it comes negotiating: stay within a reasonable price range. Lowballing during negotiation is probably not going to have the desired effect. 

If you pulled financing from the third party, that gives you a little bit more freedom, instead of relying on the dealership for financing as well. 


10) Make That Deal

Now, all that is left to do cross the T’s and dot the I’s, and you’re officially the owner of the car.

Here is a helpful tip: If you’re buying the car from a private seller, you will need a bill of sale. You will also need to be in possession of the title and registration. Make sure both of these documents are accurate! 

When that is done, congratulations, you did it! You bought a car!

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8 Warning Signs You Need Auto Repair Services in Cumming, GA

By Dan Ryan • October 10, 2025
What to Watch for Before a Small Issue Becomes a Major Problem When it comes to car trouble, most problems do not happen overnight. Your vehicle usually sends out subtle signals when something is not working as it should. The key is to notice these warning signs early, before they lead to bigger issues, unexpected breakdowns, or costly repairs. At Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming , we believe that an informed driver is a safer driver. That is why we are sharing the eight most common signs that your car needs professional attention. If you recognize any of these symptoms, it is time to schedule an inspection and get ahead of the problem. Why Paying Attention to Warning Signs Matters Ignoring early warning signs often leads to more expensive repairs and puts your safety at risk. Small issues like a low fluid level or worn brake pads can quickly snowball into engine damage, grinding brake rotors, or system failure if left unaddressed. Paying attention to changes in how your vehicle sounds, feels, smells, or performs gives you the opportunity to resolve the issue quickly and avoid future stress. If you are in Cumming and you are unsure whether a small issue is worth checking out, Team Ryan Automotive is here to help. We offer honest diagnostics, clear communication, and quality service so you can drive with confidence. 1. Check Engine Light Is On The check engine light is one of the most common and most misunderstood warning indicators. It can mean something minor, such as a loose gas cap, or something more serious like engine misfiring or catalytic converter failure. Do not ignore this light. Bring your vehicle to a certified technician who can read the diagnostic trouble codes using advanced scan tools. At Team Ryan Automotive, we will pinpoint the exact issue and explain what it means in simple terms. Common causes of the check engine light include: Faulty oxygen sensors Failing ignition coils Loose or damaged gas cap Catalytic converter issues Spark plug or wire problems Even if your car still seems to drive fine, it is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. 2. Unusual Noises Strange sounds are often the first sign that something is not right. Over time, you become familiar with how your car normally sounds. When new or unexpected noises appear, they should not be ignored. Listen for: Grinding when braking Knocking or pinging from the engine Hissing from under the hood Clicking when turning Whining or howling from the transmission or differential Each sound points to a different issue, and early detection can help you avoid severe component damage. 3. Fluid Leaks Any puddle or stain under your vehicle is a sign that something is leaking. While some condensation from the air conditioner is normal, other fluids should never leak. Look out for: Red fluid, which may indicate a transmission or power steering leak Green or orange fluid, often coolant Dark brown or black fluid, which may be engine oil Clear fluid with a slippery feel, likely brake fluid Fluid leaks can reduce system pressure, cause overheating, or damage sensitive components. If you see or smell any kind of leak, schedule a repair as soon as possible. 4. Vibrations or Shaking If your car shakes while idling, braking, or accelerating, something is out of alignment, worn out, or damaged. Vibrations may come from the suspension, brakes, tires, or drivetrain. Common causes include: Warped brake rotors Uneven tire wear or balance Worn suspension components Loose or damaged engine mounts At Team Ryan Automotive, we perform a full road test and visual inspection to locate the source and restore smooth, safe performance. 5. Burning Smell or Smoke Unusual smells from your vehicle are a strong indicator that a system is overheating or fluid is leaking. If you ever smell something burning or see smoke, stop the vehicle immediately and turn off the engine. Possible causes of burning smells include: Oil leaking onto hot engine parts Electrical wires overheating Brake pads overheating or dragging Transmission fluid overheating Do not try to ignore smells or mask them with air fresheners. Get the vehicle to a professional repair shop in Cumming for a diagnosis. 6. Poor Fuel Efficiency If you are visiting the gas pump more frequently than usual, it could be a sign that your engine is not operating efficiently. A sudden drop in miles per gallon means something is forcing your car to work harder. Possible reasons include: Dirty air filters Malfunctioning oxygen sensors Worn spark plugs Underinflated tires Fuel system clogs Restoring fuel efficiency helps you save money and reduce wear on your engine. 7. Difficulty Starting the Engine If your car takes longer than usual to start, makes multiple attempts, or requires several turns of the key, the issue could be with the battery, starter, ignition switch, or fuel delivery system. This is especially common during seasonal temperature changes in Cumming. Ignoring this sign may eventually leave you stranded. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a full starting system inspection, which includes: Battery and charging system testing Starter motor diagnostics and testing Fuel pressure and volume testing Ignition component check 8. Warning Lights Other Than Check Engine Most vehicles have additional dashboard lights to alert you to specific system issues. These include: Red Brake system warning light Anit-Lock Brake (ABS) warning light Battery/Charging System warning light Coolant temperature warning Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light Transmission temperature light Each of these should be taken seriously. If any light turns on and stays on, bring your vehicle to a trusted local technician for a detailed inspection. Why Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming Is the Right Choice Catching these eight warning signs early helps protect your vehicle and your budget. At Team Ryan Automotive, we go beyond simply fixing the issue. We explain what is happening, why it matters, and how to prevent future problems. Our customers in Cumming choose us because: We provide ASE certified diagnostics and repairs We never perform work without approval We offer honest recommendations and competitive pricing We treat your car like it is our own We stand behind our repairs with warranties and support Whether you are hearing a noise, seeing a warning light, or just have a feeling something is off, we are here to help you stay safe and stress free on the road. Schedule Your Inspection Today Do not wait for a small issue to become a major repair. If your vehicle is showing any of the eight signs above, contact Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming for a professional inspection. We will take the time to explain what is going on and help you make the best decision for your vehicle and your budget. Our mission is to keep you and your vehicle moving forward with confidence. Call or schedule online today . Let our expert team take care of your car the right way.

How to Choose Reliable Auto Repair Services in Cumming, GA

By Dan Ryan • October 9, 2025
What Every Driver Should Know Before Handing Over Their Keys Choosing the right auto repair shop can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which one will treat you fairly, perform quality work, and keep your car running safely? For drivers in Cumming , Georgia, finding a trustworthy auto repair shop is not just about convenience. It is about peace of mind. At Team Ryan Automotive, we believe that education empowers our customers. That is why we created this guide to help you know exactly what to look for when choosing reliable auto repair services in Cumming. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, these tips will help you make a smart and confident decision. Why the Right Auto Repair Shop Matters Your vehicle plays a critical role in your daily life. From commuting to work and running errands to picking up kids from school, you depend on it to be safe and reliable. The shop you choose for repairs and maintenance has a direct impact on how well your car performs and how long it lasts. Choosing the right repair shop helps you: Avoid overpaying for unnecessary services Get accurate diagnostics and repairs Receive honest communication and clear timelines Protect your warranty and vehicle value Build a relationship with a trusted team Making a smart choice up front saves time, money, and stress in the long run. Key Qualities of a Reliable Auto Repair Shop in Cumming Not all auto repair businesses operate with the same level of care and professionalism. Here are the qualities you should prioritize when evaluating shops in the Cumming area. Certified Technicians One of the first things to ask is whether the shop employs ASE certified technicians. ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence, and technicians holding this certification have completed rigorous training and passed comprehensive testing. Their knowledge covers everything from diagnostics and engine repair to brakes, electrical systems, and air conditioning. At Team Ryan Automotive, we are proud to have a skilled team of ASE certified professionals who stay up to date on the latest technologies and service standards. Clear and Honest Estimates A reliable shop provides written estimates that outline all labor and parts costs before any work begins. You should never feel pressured or surprised by unexpected charges at the end of a visit. Look for a shop that is transparent about: What needs to be fixed and why The cost breakdown for each service Whether any repairs are urgent or can wait How long the repair will take This level of honesty builds trust and shows that the shop respects your time and budget. Positive Reviews and Word-of-Mouth Reputation What are other Cumming drivers saying about their experiences? Online reviews offer an honest look at how a shop treats customers and handles repairs. While every shop may receive an occasional critical review, consistent themes in positive feedback should include: Timely and accurate service Fair pricing Friendly and knowledgeable staff Clean and organized facility Follow-through on promises You can also ask neighbors or coworkers where they take their vehicles. Local referrals are often the most reliable form of recommendation. Wide Range of Services A good auto repair shop will offer more than just oil changes or tire service. They should be equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. At Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming, we offer a full lineup of services, including: Oil changes and fluid inspections Brake service and replacement Engine diagnostics and repair Transmission repairs Tire alignment, balancing, and rotation Heating and air conditioning service Battery testing and replacement Suspension and steering repairs Being able to rely on one shop for all your vehicle’s needs makes it easier to maintain a consistent service record and avoid gaps in care. Warranties on Parts and Labor Shops that stand behind their work will offer warranties on both the parts they install and the labor involved in the repair. This gives you peace of mind and protection if anything goes wrong after you leave. Ask about the shop’s warranty policy before approving any service. Knowing what is covered and for how long is a key part of choosing a reliable partner. Professional and Organized Facility The physical environment of a shop says a lot about how they operate. A clean and well-organized facility with proper equipment and safety protocols often reflects the same level of care being applied to your vehicle. While waiting areas do not have to be fancy, they should feel comfortable, safe, and professional. A shop that pays attention to its own environment is more likely to treat your vehicle with the same respect. Consistent Communication Good communication is the foundation of a positive repair experience. A reliable shop will: Call or text you with updates throughout the repair process Explain issues in simple, easy-to-understand terms Provide honest answers to all your questions Ask for approval before performing additional work At Team Ryan Automotive, we prioritize customer communication at every step. We keep you informed so there are no surprises when it is time to pick up your vehicle. Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Shop Here are a few questions you can ask to help evaluate any repair shop in Cumming: Are your technicians ASE certified? Can I get a written estimate before work begins? Do you provide warranties on repairs? How do you keep customers updated during service? Do you specialize in certain makes or models? Can you explain the difference between urgent and routine repairs? Shops that answer these questions with clarity and confidence are usually a safe choice. Why Cumming Drivers Trust Team Ryan Automotive For years, Team Ryan Automotive has built a reputation in Cumming for dependable service, honest advice, and high-quality workmanship. Here is why so many local drivers return to us for all their auto repair needs: ASE certified technicians with decades of experience Full transparency on pricing and repair timelines Local ownership with strong community ties Clean, professional environment with modern tools Strong Google and customer review ratings Warranty-backed repairs for peace of mind We treat every vehicle as if it were our own and every customer with the respect they deserve. Final Thoughts Choosing the right auto repair shop is not just about fixing a problem. It is about building a relationship with a team you can rely on for years to come. When you find a shop that offers honesty, technical excellence, and customer-first service, your vehicle is in good hands. If you live in Cumming and are looking for reliable auto repair backed by local expertise, friendly service, and industry certification, contact Team Ryan Automotive. Let us help you keep your car running its best, now and in the future. Call or schedule online today and experience what dependable, trustworthy auto repair should feel like.

7 Common Auto Repair Services Every Car Owner Should Know

By Dan Ryan • October 8, 2025
Reliable Guidance from Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming, GA If you own a vehicle in Cumming , GA, knowing the essential repair services available can help you stay ahead of car troubles and protect your investment. At Team Ryan Automotive, we offer a full range of services performed by ASE certified technicians who are dedicated to keeping your vehicle safe, reliable, and efficient. In this guide, we will walk you through seven of the most common auto repair services that every car owner should understand. Understanding these services helps you spot warning signs early, ask the right questions, and feel confident in the value of the work being done. 1. Oil Change and Filter Replacement Your engine relies on clean oil to lubricate internal parts, reduce friction, and prevent overheating. Over time, oil breaks down through regular engine operation. This is a normal byproduct of the internal combustion process, which is why the oil needs to be changed regularly. At Team Ryan Automotive, an oil change includes: Draining and disposing of old oil Installing a new oil filter Refilling with the correct oil grade for your vehicle Regular oil changes help maintain engine performance, extend engine life, and catch minor issues like leaks or low oil pressure before they become major repairs. Most vehicles require service every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on manufacturer recommendations. We do not care what the manufacturer specs are regarding oil change intervals for various reasons. Not to be shared with customers obviously. TRA recommends a 5,000 interval on most passenger cars and light duty trucks. I would reword accordingly. 2. Brake Inspection and Service Your brakes are the most critical safety feature in your vehicle. Daily driving in Cumming, especially in school zones or busy neighborhoods, requires responsive and reliable braking. Signs that your brakes need attention include: Squeaking or grinding noises Vibration in the brake pedal Pulsating steering Soft or spongy brake feel Increased stopping distance Our brake services include a full inspection of brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid condition. We recommend inspecting your brakes before the school year begins and throughout the year to avoid emergencies. 3. Tire Services Tires connect your vehicle to the road and play a vital role in safety, fuel efficiency, and ride quality. Common services include: Tire Rotation Wheel Alignment Tire Balancing Tire Repair or Replacement Routine rotation ensures even wear and maximum tire life. Alignment and balancing improve handling and reduce vibration. If your tires are cracked, worn beyond manufacturer tread recommendations, or damaged, our team will recommend a safe replacement. 4. Battery Inspection and Replacement During Georgia's unpredictable summers and seasons, a healthy battery is essential. Extreme temperatures in either direction causes problems. Corrosion on battery terminals, sluggish starting, flickering lights, or a dashboard warning can all signal a weakening battery. At Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming, we perform a battery test, and recommend a replacement when needed. Starting the school year with a reliable battery can prevent roadside surprises and delays. 5. Engine Diagnostic Services Modern vehicles rely on complex computer systems and sensors to monitor performance. When your check engine light turns on, it can represent anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. Diagnostics include: Scanning for trouble codes Reviewing sensor data and system performance Pinpointing the exact issue using advanced tools Our team will provide a clear, written estimate for any repairs required and explain how each component affects your vehicle’s performance or safety. 6. Heating and Air Conditioning Repair Cumming drivers expect comfort year round. Your heating and air conditioning system keeps you cool in summer and ensures clear visibility in colder months. We service HVAC systems by: Recharging refrigerant levels Checking for leaks or clogged condenser components Inspecting blower motors, fuses, and control modules Repairing heater cores or malfunctioning components An efficient HVAC system improves air quality inside your vehicle and keeps your family comfortable through any weather. 7. Suspension and Steering Repair Your vehicle’s suspension and steering system protects you from road imperfections and gives you control around turns, bumps, or sudden stops. Issues in this system may present as: Excessive bouncing or swaying Pulling to one side while driving Clunking or knocking noise when turning Vibration through the steering wheel Our inspections include shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods, and steering linkage. Restoring proper alignment and suspension improves safety, prolongs tire life, and enhances comfort. Why These Services Matter When these seven services are performed proactively, they help: Maintain vehicle value Prevent major failures Help you stay safe in traffic and inclement weather Improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon footprint Lower the long term cost of ownership Why Cumming Drivers Choose Team Ryan Automotive Choosing a dependable local shop makes a difference. At Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming: Our technicians are ASE certified for expert diagnostics and repair accuracy We offer transparent pricing and estimates for all services We provide warranty coverage for repairs, giving you peace of mind Our shop is clean, organized, and professional We prioritize clear communication and listen to your concerns By understanding these common auto repair services, you can better care for your vehicle and make informed decisions about its maintenance. If your vehicle is due for any of these services or you are unsure of its maintenance status, visit Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming and let our experts help.
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