Where to Buy Used Cars in Fargo, ND?

Corwin Honda Fargo is the top choice for buyers looking for reliable used cars in Fargo, North Dakota. 

 

 

Looking for the right used car in Fargo, North Dakota can be challenging. There are a lot of dealers and private sellers to choose from.  Sometimes, cars that look great may have hidden problems, like transmission issues, or they might have a history of accidents that sellers don't tell you about. Also, figuring out the real cost of the car can be hard because of unexpected fees or confusing financing terms. 

 

This guide is here to help you understand what to watch out for and how to check a car's past. It will give you tips on how to figure out a car's worth and how to talk about prices. With this information, you can feel more confident about choosing the right car without spending too much.

 

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

 

Vehicle History Report:  Obtain a vehicle history report from a reputable service like Carfax or AutoCheck. This report will reveal accidents, major repairs, and ownership history, giving you valuable insights into the car's past.

 

Mileage and Age:  While mileage and age are important factors, they shouldn't be the sole deciding ones. A well-maintained car with higher mileage can be a better choice than a neglected car with lower miles. 

 

Generally, cars under 100,000 miles are considered good, but some well-maintained vehicles, particularly Hondas known for their reliability, can last much longer. Research typical mileage ranges for specific models you're interested in. Resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds can be helpful.

 

Condition:  During your inspection, pay close attention to the exterior. Look for rust, dents, mismatched paint, or uneven panel gaps. Then get inside the vehicle. Check for excessive wear and tear, leaks, or electrical issues. Most importantly, pop up the head. Look for leaks, loose belts, or signs of excessive wear.

 

Test Drive: Take the car on a variety of roads to assess its handling, braking, acceleration, and overall performance. Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or steering issues.

 

Should You Bring a Mechanic When Buying a Used Car?

 

While the inspection guide above equips you to assess a used car's condition, you might consider bringing along a trusted mechanic for an extra layer of confidence. Here are the pros and cons of bringing a mechanic:

 

Pros: 

 

• Expert inspection: A mechanic has a trained eye and the necessary tools to identify potential problems that you might miss during your inspection. They can assess the car's mechanical condition more thoroughly, checking for issues like worn-out components, potential leaks, or signs of previous repairs.

 

• Peace of mind: Having a mechanic's professional opinion can give you peace of mind and help you avoid buying a car with hidden problems. This can be especially valuable if you're not very familiar with cars yourself.

 

• Negotiation leverage: The mechanic's findings can be used as leverage during negotiation if they uncover any significant problems that require repairs.

 

Cons: 

 

• Cost: Mechanics typically charge a fee for pre-purchase inspections, which can range from $50 to $150 depending on your location and the complexity of the inspection.

 

• Scheduling: Coordinating the seller's availability with your mechanic's schedule can add an extra layer of complexity to the car-buying process.

 

• Not a guarantee: Even a mechanic's inspection can't guarantee that you'll avoid all future problems. There might be hidden issues that even a professional can't detect.

 

So, should you bring a mechanic when buying a used car? Well, the choice is yours. 

 

If you feel confident with your inspection skills and the car seems to be in good condition,  you might proceed without a mechanic. However, if you are unsure or want extra peace of mind,  especially when considering an older car or buying from a private seller,  having a mechanic inspect the car can definitely help. 

 

Check Out Our Used Honda SUVs for Sale.

 

What's Good Mileage on a Used Car? 

 

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to what good mileage is for a used car, but here's a general rule - the average car is driven around 12,000 miles per year. So, a good starting point to assess a used car's mileage is to multiply its age by 12,000. 

 

For example, a 5-year-old car would ideally have around 60,000 miles (5 years * 12,000 miles/year). This is just a rule of thumb, though. Cars can last well beyond 100,000 miles with proper maintenance.

 

Beyond mileage, you should also consider the car's service history. A well-maintained car with 150,000 miles might be a better buy than a car with only 50,000 miles that was neglected. Some brands are known for their reliability and can last longer with higher mileage, particularly Hondas. If you plan on keeping the car for many years, a lower-mileage option might be ideal. If you just need a car for a few years, a higher-mileage car could work just fine.

 

How to Finance Your Used Car

 

Buying a used car is a smart financial decision, but figuring out the best way to pay for it can be a bit confusing. Here are some options to consider:

 

• Bank loans: Many banks offer competitive interest rates on auto loans. Check with your bank to see what options they offer.

 

• Credit union loans: Credit unions often offer lower rates and more favorable loan terms than banks. If you're a member of a credit union, be sure to check their car loan rates.

 

• Dealership financing: Dealerships offer financing options through their own lenders or partner banks. While convenient, dealership financing rates may not always be the most competitive. It's wise to compare rates from different lenders before making a decision.

 

Read more: How to Buy a Used Car from a Dealership?

 

Best Used Car Dealership in Fargo, North Dakota

 

Corwin Honda Fargo is the people's choice when it comes to used cars for sale in Fargo, North Dakota. We have a large selection of used and certified pre-owned vehicles in our inventory and multiple financing options to fund your purchase. 

 

Call or visit the most trusted used car dealership in Fargo, ND today! We serve the communities of Fargo, Cass County, Clay County, Moorhead, West Fargo, Dilworth, Glyndon, Casselton, Valley City, Harwood, Hillsboro, Horace, Wahpeton, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Fergus Falls, Detroit Lake, Hawley, Lake Park, North Dakota, Minneapolis, St. Cloud, Alexandria, and surrounding areas.

 

Browse Our Used Cars Inventory.