What to look for when buying a used car in Alberta
What to look for when buying a used car in Alberta
Posted on June 16, 2023
Buying a used car can be a daunting experience. Although buying used vehicles in Alberta may seem straightforward, you need to do your homework and seek professional assistance along with doing some basic research. Here are some tips to remember when buying a used car in Alberta.
Vehicle Registration Certificate
First and foremost, make sure that it’s registered properly. The title should be issued officially, and there are no outstanding liens against it. If there are any liens on the vehicle, they should be paid off before you buy it.
Car Fines or Taxes
You should also verify that there are no outstanding taxes or fees on the vehicle. If there are any liens, you’ll want to ask the seller to clear them.
Research the Price of the Car
Look at multiple dealers and see the cars they have at different prices. Check out what kind of warranty they offer on the vehicle and ensure its title is clear.
Chain Of Ownership
When looking to buy a used vehicle, it’s essential to check whether the car has been transferred cleanly between all owners and whether the chain of ownership is in place.
Settle on a Budget
It’s also important to know how much money you want to spend on your purchase. There are many factors at play here - the cost of fuel and repairs are just two examples - so your budget needs to reflect all possible expenses, so you can make an informed decision about what type of vehicle would work best for your needs.
Schedule a Test Drive
Be sure to ask if you can take the vehicle for a test drive. This way, you can get a feel for how the car handles and whether it’s right for you.
Car Inspection
Also, make sure you get the car inspected by an independent mechanic specializing in used cars before making an offer on the vehicle. This will help ensure that your purchase is as safe as possible and that it has no hidden issues that would leave you stranded.
Check Your Tax Liability
You should always check your tax liability when buying a used car in Alberta. If you’re buying from a private seller, you should be aware that you won’t have to pay any tax. If you’re buying from a dealership, then you would be liable to pay 5% GST.
Conclusion
Remember that there aren’t any foolproof ways to buy a used car. However, if you learn from others’ mistakes and keep these things in mind before you take the plunge, you can avoid some of the most common pitfalls that most first-time buyers fall into.