What questions should you ask when shopping for a reliable used car? Toyota of Clermont has the info you need.

1. Toyota of Clermont

3. Kicking off a new year with a new ride? If you’re
heading out this holiday season to shop used cars,
it’s wise to be prepared before you hit the lot. Our
Clermont Toyota dealership has come up with a
list of questions you should ask every used car
seller, private or dealer. Check it out!

5. » Ask if the used car in question has been in any
accidents and if so, get a copy of any repair records
that go along with it to see what the damage was.
» You can also ask for a CarFax report, which should
have accident information on it. Sometimes there
can be underlying damage that you can’t see right
off the bat but will cost you in the future.
» Also, be on the lookout for things like mismatched
paint and panels that don’t quite meet up. These
can indicate repairs from an accident.

7. » You should be able to look under the hood when
you’re checking out an Orlando used car. Be sure to
check the oil, make sure the battery is in good
condition, and look for any leaks or damage in the
engine bay.
» Keep your ears open and your nose clear, too –
listen for odd sounds while the engine runs and be
aware of any smells that seem off.
» If you’re still not sure, ask if the used car can be
checked by a mechanic before you sign the dotted
line. Also, ask about warranties that go along with
the vehicle in case you have problems down the
road.

9. » Always ask how many previous owners the car
has had. More owners may mean more of a
chance that the car wasn’t routinely cared for,
so ask for maintenance records and the CarFax
report if the number of owners is on the high
side.
» Also ask what kind of mileage was put on the
car – highway mileage is harder than normal
mileage because the vehicle is traveling longer
distances at higher speeds, making the engine
work overtime.

11. » You should always be able to take a used car for a test drive
before you buy. If the owner says no, walk away.
» Put the car through its paces. Try to hit a speed of at least 50
mph for a minute or two to see how it performs. Remember
to park it, put it in reverse, take left and right turns, and test
out the accelerator and brakes.
» Be aware of any strange noises or smells when you’re behind
the wheel. Also note how the car handles – does it
accelerate and brake smoothly? How does it handle the
turns?
» Make sure you’re comfortable in the driver’s seat – can you
reach everything? Are there any blind spots that are deal-
breakers? Does the car seem like a fit for your drive time
needs?

13. » Mileage: How many miles are on the car? Are
you comfortable with the owner?
» Service: Does the car have service records to go
along with it?
» Parts: Are there warranties or receipts for any
parts or accessories added on to the vehicle?
» Recalls: Have there been any for this
make/model?
» Condition: How is the car? The seller’s answer
may answer a question that you didn’t think to
ask.

14. » Ready to start shopping affordable, high-quality
used cars? Come on down to Toyota of
Clermont. We offer used Toyotas & a wide
selection of other makes and models at prices
you’ll love.
» We’re just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851
State Road 50, and you can call (352) 404-7000
to get more information and schedule your test
drive.