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How to Find Budget Cars in AZ

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Finding Cheap Cars For Sale in AZ

Do you live in Arizona and you need a car? If so, there's a great deal of appeal with going the used car route. Unlike buying cars in the northern states, car bodies are generally rust free in Arizona. That means all you need to focus on is getting a car that is mechanically sound. One of the first steps in used car shopping is to establish a budget. You can't start looking for your next vehicle if you don't know the price range you are looking in. The price of a used car can vary from the tens of thousands range all the way to just a few thousand dollars. For those whose price point is in the 'budget range', here are some great tips for finding a perfect car that not only fits your budget, but is also reliable.

What is a Realistic Budget for a Cheap Used Car

If you are hoping to get a truly reliable car, one that is in good working condition, and one that might last you for a while, you need to have reasonable expectations. Yes, you might find a car somewhere out there that is being sold for $1000 or less, but the reality is you really need to aim higher for a good, solid car. If you can set your budget goals to at least $4000-5000, you are bound to be able to find a great car. You might be able to go slightly lower, but the lower you go, the higher mileage and wear and tear you are going to find on the car.

Budget Car Mileage

When car shopping, how many miles any potential cars have on them is certainly something to consider. If you are searching in the 'around $5k' range, know that you will likely be looking at a vehicle that is four to ten years old, and a mileage of more than 50k. But, in many cases, the mileage might be over 100k. Don't let this scare you! If you purchase your vehicle from a reputable dealership, that has put it under a full inspection, and it has a clean Carfax report, the car likely has many more miles to go before a major repair. Remember, today's cars routinely go 200,000 miles and more, so buying a 100,000 mile+ car can still be a safe bet.

Where to look for your Budget Car

Today, most used car searches start on the internet. This is a real plus for the consumer because this entire process can be done from the privacy of your home. The first decision you need to make is where you are going to purchase your car from. While you might find a super-cheap vehicle through a private party sale, the risks here might outweigh the benefits. You not only must arrange financing yourself, you also do not have the peace of mind a dealer might give you, access to the Carfax report, and an inspection to make sure the deal is really as good as it seems. In general, if the deal seems just too good to be true, then it probably is. A private seller could easily hide an underlying problem. On the other hand, buying from a certified dealership, such as Loan Approval Center, has many benefits. For one, you will have a wide selection all at one place. You can even browse the details and view photos of every used car on the lot right online. A dealership will also help you get financing for your used car, including offering you a bad credit loan, if needed. Lastly, a reputable dealer, such as Loan Approval Center, will never put a used car on their lot unless it has passed a multi-point inspection.

Test-driving your Used Car

So at this point, you have established your budget, found a dealership you want to work with, and have browsed the online budget car selection. If you see one or more vehicles you are interested in, it is very important to take a trip down to the dealership for a test drive. Take a good look a the exterior of the car to make sure it is up to your standards. A well-maintained car usually looks the part. The next step is to take it out for a drive and see how it feels. Drive the car on a variety of terrains and road situations, including hilly, curvy roads, highways, and city traffic. Is it powerful enough for you? Do you like the way it handles? Make sure the driver's seat is comfortable for you and gives you plenty of room. If you have a child that sits in a car seat, it's a good idea to bring the seat along, and make sure it fits nicely in the back.

Final Thoughts on Budget Cars

It is important to know that just because your budget for your next car might be on the lower side, it does not mean you cannot get a good, reliable car. If you have at least $5 to spend on a car, you should be able to find something. Now, it might not be your dream car, it might not be the specific car you want. But if this car's purpose is to get you from point A to point B on a daily basis, then it will do the job. Vehicles in this price range are also great for teen drivers. It will be new enough to have modern safety features, but will be affordable for your teen, or you, to purchase. Many car dealership websites, such as Loan Approval Center, have a special inventory page just for budget cars, or cars under 10k. Take a look today! You might just find the perfect budget car. Good Luck!

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