Where to Buy a Used Car, Truck, or SUV?

where to buy a used car, truck, or SUV

Where Do I Get the Best Deal on a Pre-Owned Car or Truck?

Car buyers of today have just about too many options to shop. From classifieds to social media to dealership websites, we are flooded with choices and a seemingly endless supply of cars. So just where can we go to receive the best deal? It boils down to three choices: a private seller, a dealer, or a used car lot. Every option has its good and bad parts, but when making such a big financial decision you want to give yourself the best opportunity of getting the absolute best deal possible.


Used Car Buying From the Auto Dealer

While a lot of people would agree that it’s the most convenient way to buy a pre-owned car, there are some that think they can get a cheaper deal somewhere else. Nothing can compare to the service we can provide, even if you could get a cheaper price somewhere else (most likely with even more miles and with fewer guarantees).

Some of the benefits of buying your next car here are:

  • Many Options for Financing – We have multiple ways to get you financed.
  • Easy to Access Customer Reviews – See what others think.
  • Vehicle History Reports – Know the historical data of your new-to-you car.
  • Pricing – Our experienced vehicle professionals work hard to provide fair prices.
  • CPO Vehicles – We have Certified Pre-Owned cars for your peace of mind.
  • Selection – We’ve got a much larger selection than most.
  • Vehicle Delivery – We deliver. Just ask and we will see what we can do. (Exclusions apply)
  • Online Buying – Can’t make it to the dealership, you can buy online 24/7.
  • Convenient Hours of Operation – We’re open extended hours to be available when you need us.
Pre-Owned Car Buying at Your Dealer


Pre-Owned Vehicles From a Private Seller

Pre-Owned Cars or Trucks From a Private Seller

If you are seeking a rare vehicle, particularly an older vehicle, then a private seller may be your best option. You could get a great price, but you as the buyer take on almost all of the risk in this scenario. You would be accountable for all of the items found at the dealership:

  • Reviews – There may be absolutely no background info. Can you believe the seller?
  • History of the Vehicle – If you want a history report, you’ll be paying for it.
  • Payments – Many sellers want cash, but you can also try financing through your own lender. Your choices are limited either way.
  • Warranty – Buyer Beware, Caveat Emptor
  • Pre-Purchase Inspections – A 3rd party inspection is suggested, but you’re responsible for the cost.
  • The Current Condition of the Car – There could be underlying or unknown reasons why they are selling the vehicle.


Buying at a Second-Hand Car Lot

A used car lot can offer a few of the benefits of a big dealership, such as a bigger choice of vehicles and the ability to browse them online. You can still get a large choice of vehicles and the ability to browse them online at an independent used car lot, but they also do offer more risks. While some may be an established part of the local area, several others seem to come and go almost overnight. Here are a few of the other main differences between a dealer and a car lot:

  • Vehicle Inspections – Inspections at car lots are normally not quite as thorough.
  • Repair Technicians – Limited on-site service mechanics, possibly with minimal experience.
  • Quality of the Vehicle – Be on the lookout for vehicles that have high miles with potentially dubious backgrounds.
  • CPO – Certified Pre-Owned cars, trucks, and SUVs are available only at certified dealers.
  • Repairs – ‘Quick fixes’ may be used to maximize profits and save money.
  • Character – Some used car lots pick profitability over customer service.
  • Financing – The interest rates are generally higher than most if they even have financing.
Buying From a Car Lot


MINI online car buying Santa Fe NM

Visit Santa Fe MINI for Used Cars

Santa Fe MINI welcomes you to browse our fantastic selection of used small sports cars and crossovers for sale in Santa Fe, NM. Buy, sell, trade, or even get pre-approved for financing, online or in-person. We offer quality, convenience, and competitive pricing that you can trust. Visit our Santa Fe area used car lot today. We look forward to serving you.



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Where to Buy a Used Car, Truck, or SUV? | Santa Fe MINI

Santa Fe MINI Authorized Service 35.632836, -106.025815.