Finding a Used Chevy That Is Right for You

Whether you are relatively new to vehicle shopping or have not made a purchase in several years, it is often quite challenging to know where to start. Read on to know more about car buying. It only takes a little research and planning. In this article, you will undoubtedly learn the best way of finding a used Chevy that is right for you.

How do I find the right car for me?

We know that hunting down the right used car can be stressful. That is why we want to prepare you for this treasure hunt. Here’s how:

 

Step 1. Evaluate your Needs

Your expectations and needs will determine the meaning of the “right car.” While some people like to make a statement with their cars, some want to go for adventurous drives on weekends. In those cases, how the car makes you feel will play a big role in determining which is the right car for you.

 

However, for those who need a vehicle for day-to-day drives, the functionality should play a significant factor. Here are some practical determinants to consider:

• What safety features do you need? Do you want a lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, or blindspot monitoring?
• Do you need ample cargo capacity?
• Do you need much power for towing?
• How much parking or garage space do you have?
• How many passengers do you have to transport?
• Do children’s car seats matter; will you be using them?

 

Step 2. Set the Budget

You will have to consider financing your lease or purchase unless you are paying cash for your vehicle. You should ask yourself, “how much can I actually afford to set aside toward a car payment each month?” According to experts, the general rule is that your payment should not be more than 15 percent of your monthly net income. Though a used car will be less pricey, the same law should apply. If you consider a lease, go for a monthly payment of less than 10 percent of your monthly net earnings. You will have to consider an extra 7 percent of your monthly take-home pay to cover the insurance and fuel costs. Knowing your budget in advance will play a significant role when negotiating your next SUV or truck.

 

Step 3. Determine if you want to Buy or Lease

Buying and leasing each have their positives and negatives, and how you feel about these will help guide your decision on which path to take when finding a used Chevy that is right for you.

 

For example, with a lease, you can drive a high-priced car for less money. You can also drive a new vehicle with the latest technology every few years. Another positive thing about leasing is that the factory warranty will cover most of the repairs. But when the lease contract ends, you will have no car to drive and will have to go shopping again. On the contrary, when buying a vehicle, the monthly payments are higher, which is more expensive. However, after paying off the loan, the car is entirely yours for as long as it runs, and you have not sold it.

 

Step 4. Consider the costs of Ownership

Some vehicles may be inexpensive to buy but more pricey to own. Although two cars have about the same price, one might cost more to maintain and insure and depreciate faster.

 

Before closing the deal on a car, you should weigh up its long-term ownership costs. These include maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and fuel costs.

 

Step 5. Find vehicles for Sale

Either you visit a dealership in person and check their inventory to find the vehicle you want or coordinate with the dealership through phone, their website, or even their consultants. Once you have an idea of the vehicle you want, you can quickly check its availability.

 

Step 6. Request for a copy of the Vehicle History Report  (VHR)

Once you found the vehicle that suits your needs, you have to do a background check. Knowing a vehicle’s history is an essential part of the shopping process. You can even print a copy of your own. 

 

All you need is the vehicle’s identification number or VIN. The most common VIN checker is Carfax. Their vehicle history report will show you the owner history, usage information, accidents reported, and service history.

 

Step 7. Set up a Test Drive

After finding the car that seems a good fit for you and checking its history, it’s time to peruse the vehicle. Call, text, or email the dealership’s internet or scheduling department to schedule a specific date and time for the test drive.

 

Step 8. Things to watch out for during a Test Drive

A vehicle might seem to have all the essential features you want, but the real inspection occurs when you are in the vehicle’s driver seat. The smartest to do during a test-drive is driving the vehicle the way you would drive it during your day-to-day life.

 

Here are the four categories that you should focus on:

 

• Inspect the Exterior

This is where the saying, “do not judge the book by its cover,” does not apply. Inspect the body for scrapes and dings. Peruse the glass and lenses for pocks, cracks, and unusual moisture. Check out the tires for signs of reduced or uneven tread depth. Since a vehicle’s appearance reflects upon the owner, you might want to make sure it is in good shape.

 

• Check Under the Hood

Even the best-looking used vehicles can be deceptive. Pop the hood to ensure that everything is meeting the standard. Give the belts, hoses, and radiator a thorough inspection to ensure there are no excess fluids in places where they do not belong. Check the battery for any signs of corrosion. You will want to detect problems that may have been missed.

 

• Look under the Vehicle

You should not miss anything. Have a look under the vehicle to make sure that you have not overlooked any issue. Residue and leaks usually point out bigger problems, so you will want to get rid of them before you even settle yourself behind the wheel. 

 

• Examine the Interior

Since you have made it this far, you are now ready for a closer look. Keep an eye out while checking the cabin for any damage to the seats or strange odors that raise a flag. Make sure that all the vehicle’s controls, pedals, and instruments function properly. You will need them before even thinking of taking the car on the road for a test drive. Testing the car is critical when finding a used Chevy that is right for you.

 

Step 9. Pick your Vehicle

The choice should be clear after test-driving a couple of cars. If it is not, sleep on it. You might have your answer in the morning. If not, you might have to take a few steps back and test-drive more cars. It is better to take time in the shopping phase than experience what is known as the “buyer’s remorse.” 

 

Step 10. Have it checked by a Professional

You should consider a trusted mechanic’s opinion. It is acceptable and understandable to have your chosen vehicle inspected thoroughly by an expert. A respectable dealership should understand that you will probably want to get your vehicle inspected by someone else. They should be eager to help you eliminate your doubts.

 

Step 11. Closing the deal on your terms

Timing is different for everyone. According to experts, you should be comfortable with your purchase before sealing the deal. Do not skip this step at all costs.

What is the best Chevy to buy?

If you are looking for a high-quality used Chevy, you do not have to look further. We have already listed the top-rated Chevy models for each class. Take a look at the list below when finding a used Chevy that is right for you.

• Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevy Equinox works great for families and city drivers who need extra cargo space but still want a smaller vehicle with easy maneuverability. This hauler is a compact SUV. Efficient and affordable, this is another family-friendly vehicle that fits into the budget when bought used. It features a wide range of elements or components that parents and kids alike will undoubtedly love, even going back a few models.

 

• Chevrolet Camaro

The Camaro will always be a part of this list. This Chevy muscle car, a classic, goes back decades and well-maintained. Versions from the 1960s and 1970s are still kicking up the dust on the road today. Check out a used Camaro if you are looking for a powerful sports car but do not want to pay a massive amount for something brand new.

 

• Chevrolet Cruze

The compact Chevy Cruze is available as both hatchback and sedan. This Chevy is one of the best starter cars for new drivers and an excellent option for commuters, thanks to its stunning fuel economy, peppy performance, and comfortable cabin. The Cruze has an affordable base price even brand new, so getting a used one will save shoppers serious cash.

 

• Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevy Silverado is a full-size pickup truck and is considered one of the most popular in its class. It has always offered a wide range of trim levels and configurations so that you get the perfect model for your needs, and it has been around for two decades now. Ideal as a family car, work truck, or both. A Silverado from any model year is capable, reliable, and offers tremendous utility.

 

• Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan. It has become a popular choice thanks to its stylish looks, hybrid option, and sporty performance, offering up to 250 horsepower. If you are looking for a cozy, intuitive interior and a thrilling ride, any model from the last few years will serve you well.

Is Chevy expensive to fix?

According to research, Chevrolet vehicles across all models average $8,800 in maintenance costs over one decade, placing the company in the middle of the list among other competitors in terms of long-term maintenance costs. Chevy owners can expect to shell out around $50 for maintenance costs during the first year.

Is the Chevy Camaro reliable?

The 2021 Chevrolet Camaro offers sufficient engine power and agile handling, but it also has limited interior space and a low predicted reliability score. 

• Overall Score: 7.6
• Interior: 5.9
• Safety: 8.5
• Critics’ rating: 8.6
• Reliability: 2 out of 5 stars
• Performance: 8.7

 

Strengths

• Attractive Handling
• Easy-to-use Infotainment System
• Potent V6 and V8 Engines

Weaknesses

• Mixed Interior Quality
• Awful Predicted Reliability Score
• Confined Second Row

 

What’s new for 2021?

• Wireless standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

What is the most reliable Chevy SUV?

A well-furnished family vehicle must highlight a user-friendly infotainment system, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. Above all, it must be dependable when finding a used Chevy that is right for you. Here are two Chevy models that you should consider if you are ready to upgrade your family’s mode of transportation—the Tahoe and Equinox.

 

2020 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that can comfortably accommodate eight to nine passengers, depending on the model. It has sufficient space for cargo when you are driving alone—94.7 cubic feet.

 

According to experts, you should not have to worry about the unexpected mechanical failure on the way since the Tahoe got a perfect predicted reliability score or rating of five out of five. Only a few new vehicles on the road today have such an excellent rating. Keep that in mind when finding a used Chevy that is right for you.

 

2020 Chevrolet Equinox

Another one to earn a 5 out of 5 reliability rating is the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. This sophisticated crossover room for five, a maximum of 63.9 cubic feet of space, and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

 

Another expert has mentioned, “Parents will undoubtedly like that it has great crash test ratings, as well as a long list of standard safety tech like lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. In terms of its high predicted reliability ratings, families are unlikely to be left stranded by mechanical failures when driving the Equinox.”

Conclusion for Finding a Used Chevy That Is Right for You

Chevrolet models are often in the middle of the rankings, but once you’ve done your homework to find the needle in the haystack, it will be worth it. Knowing the best models that Chevy can offer will save you plenty of cash and give you the same comfort other expensive brands are offering.