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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By Dan Ryan August 15, 2025
Make Safety a Priority with Tire Maintenance from Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming As the school year kicks off and traffic increases around Buford and Cumming , your vehicle’s tires become more important than ever. Whether you are driving through busy school zones, sitting in carpool lines, or commuting long distances every day, the condition of your tires directly affects your safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance on the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, we help Georgia drivers stay ahead of seasonal driving demands by focusing on the components that matter most. Your tires are your only point of contact with the road, making them essential for control, traction, and braking in all driving conditions. Before the school year ramps up, make sure your tires are ready for everything the road throws your way. Why Tire Maintenance Is Essential During the School Season Back-to-school driving typically involves more stop-and-go traffic, tighter turns in crowded parking lots, and more time spent behind the wheel overall. Many drivers also carry additional passengers or gear during this time, which increases the load placed on their tires. Without regular maintenance, tires can wear unevenly, lose air pressure, or fail unexpectedly. Driving with worn or underinflated tires makes it harder to steer, lengthens stopping distance, and increases your risk of a blowout. That risk is even greater when you are rushing through morning traffic or navigating wet roads during fall storms. Tire maintenance helps prevent these issues and gives you peace of mind as you drive your family to school, practice, or appointments. How to Inspect Your Tires at Home Even before visiting an auto shop, there are a few quick checks you can do yourself to assess the condition of your tires . Start by walking around your vehicle and checking the following: Tread Depth: Use the penny test to measure tread depth. Insert a penny into the tire groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and it is time to replace the tire. Sidewall Condition: Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall. These can indicate structural damage that may lead to a blowout. Tire Pressure: Use a tire gauge to measure air pressure and compare it to the recommended levels listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver-side door sticker. Be sure to check the tires when they are cold, not after driving. Tire Wear Pattern: Uneven tread wear can point to alignment issues or improper inflation. If the wear is more severe on one edge or in the center, bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Professional Tire Services You Should Schedule While home checks are helpful, they are not a substitute for a thorough inspection by a certified technician. At Team Ryan Automotive, our tire services go beyond basic checks, ensuring every aspect of your tire system performs properly. We recommend the following services before the school year starts: Tire Rotation: Rotating your tires regularly helps ensure they wear evenly and last longer. Different positions on the vehicle experience different types of wear, so rotating them every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps even this out. Wheel Alignment : If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel is off-center, it could be a sign of misalignment. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, reduce handling, and shorten tire lifespan. We use precise alignment tools to correct the issue and protect your tires. Tire Balancing : If you feel vibration while driving at higher speeds, your tires may be out of balance. Tire balancing ensures that weight is distributed evenly around the wheel, helping to prevent excessive wear and suspension damage. Flat Repair: If you have a slow leak or have recently run over a nail, our team can often repair the tire and restore it to full function. We always inspect the tire thoroughly to ensure the damage is repairable and safe. Tire Replacement : If your tread is worn out or the sidewall is damaged, we offer high-quality replacement tires from top brands. Our technicians will help you choose the right tire for your vehicle, driving habits, and budget. Why Tire Pressure Is a Big Deal in Georgia Weather Georgia’s weather can fluctuate, especially as summer transitions into fall. These temperature changes affect your tire pressure more than you might expect. For every 10-degree change in temperature, your tire pressure can fluctuate by one to two pounds per square inch. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and increase heat buildup, which can cause premature tire wear or even failure. Overinflated tires reduce traction and can make your ride less comfortable. Maintaining tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level enhances your gas mileage, prolongs tire life, and ensures your vehicle remains stable during sudden stops or turns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we check and adjust tire pressure as part of every inspection and service. We want your tires to perform their best, regardless of the temperature outside. Tread Depth and School Zone Safety Stopping distance is critical when driving in school zones. Children can appear suddenly, other vehicles may stop without warning, and speed limits are significantly reduced. Worn-out tires cannot grip the road effectively, especially in wet conditions, and that compromises your ability to brake quickly. Tires with deep, healthy tread offer better traction on wet pavement and allow for more responsive braking. If your tread depth is low, especially as rainstorms become more frequent, it is time to replace your tires. Driving through Buford and Cumming school zones with proper tread and pressure ensures you can stop when it matters most. What Makes Team Ryan Automotive Different When you visit Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming, you are not just getting a tire service. You are getting a partner who prioritizes your safety, explains your options clearly, and never pressures you into repairs you do not need. Our technicians are ASE certified and trained to work with all makes and models. Whether you drive a compact sedan, an SUV, or a family van, we have the tools and knowledge to care for your tires the right way. We believe in proactive service, not reactive repairs. Our goal is to help you stay ahead of issues before they become emergencies. That is why we encourage all drivers to include tire maintenance in their back-to-school car care routine. Schedule Your Tire Inspection Before the School Year Gets Busy The back-to-school season brings increased mileage, tighter schedules, and more road risks. Do not let worn or underperforming tires put your family’s safety in jeopardy. Let Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming inspect your tires and make sure they are ready for everything this season demands. Our tire services are fast, affordable, and focused on keeping your vehicle road ready. Whether you need a simple rotation or a full set of new tires, we are here to help. Call or schedule online today . Drive smarter, safer, and more confidently this school year with help from the tire experts at Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan August 11, 2025
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan August 8, 2025
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
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