Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Used Lexus
by schearerswpadmin April 29, 2024Lexus is a luxury car brand with a steep price tag. A used model will give you all the luxury and reliability of a Lexus without creating a massive dent in your bank account. A Lexus can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or 16 to 20 years when properly maintained. Of course, you want to get a car or SUV with as little mileage as possible. Buying a used Lexus could be a great idea if you follow certain steps to keep yourself protected from getting taken advantage of.
Have a Budget and Stick to It
When you’re in the market to buy a pre-owned luxury vehicle like a Lexus, it’s not just the price of the vehicle itself that matters. You need to keep in mind additional costs like insurance, maintenance, and any potential repairs that may pop up. Do your personal accounting, and come up with a budget that is comfortable for you. After that, don’t be swayed by the sales pitch the dealership or the individual seller throws at you.
Choose the Model and Understand Your Own Needs
Research the different models and pick the generation and model year that fits your needs. Older models will have fewer features. Newer models could be loaded with the latest gadgets and gizmos, but they will also cost more. Make a list of all your wants, and then match it with your needs. Then decide what your ideal Lexus model will be.
Check the Maintenance History
Ask to see the maintenance logs of the Lexus you’re interested in. A dealership selling a pre-owned vehicle will usually be able to show you this, especially if it is a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Even if you’re thinking of buying from an individual owner, you should always ask for the maintenance records. You need to know whether the car was in an accident, what type of damage may have occurred, what type of maintenance issues the car has had, are they chronic or one-time, etc. Be aware of gaps in regular maintenance, as that could mean potential neglect and possible future problems.
Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle
A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) car means it has been put through rigorous and thorough multipoint inspection and testing to make sure the vehicle meets a like-new standard. CPO cars usually have an extended warranty backed by the original manufacturer. Quite often CPOs come with extra perks like roadside assistance and more. This offers peace of mind, but also makes the car more expensive. Ask us to learn more about used and CPO vehicles.
Inspect and Test Drive the Model
It is your right to be able to inspect a used/pre-owned vehicle that you want to buy. Definitely, you ought to take it for a test drive. Don’t feel pressured to cut your test drive short! Make sure you drive within the city (or country) and on the freeway. If there are no freeways close by, find a road where you can drive at both low and high speeds.
Pay attention to the dashboard to see if any warning lights or MILs (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) light up. Listen for grinding noises, squealing, or rattling. Check the brakes, feel the suspension, and notice how the car handles when you accelerate. Stop by our shop and ask to test drive any of our pre-owned vehicles!
Negotiate and Close the Deal
Make sure you are completely familiar with the Lexus model you want and have done exhaustive research on the price by visiting different websites, dealerships, and the Kelly Blue Book. When you are knowledgeable and savvy, you are in a better position to negotiate and come to a reasonable price that both parties (you and the seller) will be happy with. Once you reach an agreement on the price, close the deal by reviewing all the paperwork carefully before signing.
After the Purchase
Now you are the proud owner of a used Lexus. This is only the beginning! Even if your used Lexus is in great condition, it is highly recommended that you have an in-depth inspection and maintenance done. This not only puts your mind at ease, it also reduces problems in the long run.
Visit Us Today!
If you are in the market for a used Lexus, be sure to visit us at Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. Let us help you find the car you want and deserve. We are conveniently located in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Macungie in Pennsylvania.