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SUVs are the ideal family car, providing the seating and cargo-carrying capacity you need for trips and everyday errands. However, they can be quite expensive, so many families opt for minivans instead, which are generally cheaper than SUVs.

If you’re keen on getting an SUV for your family, one way you can do so is by buying a used car instead of a new one. Buying a used car is a great way to own the vehicle of your dreams for a lower price. It also saves you from the depreciation of a new car, giving you more bang for your buck.

Canyon State Trucks, a trusted used car dealership in Phoenix, shares the following tips to help you navigate the used car-buying process wisely.

1. Check for undeclared flood damage

This type of damage doesn’t always appear in vehicle history reports, especially if it didn’t leave any obvious signs. Luckily, there are various ways to check for flood damage if you don’t trust the history report the seller gave you.

You can either run the vehicle identification number yourself through a paid service like CARFAX or have the SUV inspected by an unbiased professional mechanic. 

CARFAX also offers Free Flood Check®, which is separate from the vehicle history reports it does. This assessment checks for the possibility of flood damage based on the car’s registered address and the flood history in the area throughout its registration period.

2. Beware of odometer fraud

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that over 450,000 cars with tampered odometer readings are sold every year. Low mileage is one of the key things buyers look for in used cars, so some private sellers turn back their odometer to make their vehicle more attractive.

If the SUV you want to buy is more than five years old yet it shows a suspiciously low mileage, then you may want to think twice about buying it.

The best way to avoid odometer fraud is to buy used SUVs from certified car dealerships instead of private sellers. Used car dealers put their vehicles through a careful vetting and assessment process and provide you with inspection records. This process assures you that you won’t fall victim to odometer fraud.

3. Look for certified pre-owned vehicles 

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are another good reason to buy from dealerships instead of private sellers. CPO SUVs have been inspected by the original manufacturer, which guarantees that the used vehicle is in the best possible condition.

Although CPO cars are generally more expensive than regular used cars, they often come with low mileage and at least a one-year warranty, which makes your investment worthwhile. 

4. Determine a fair purchase price

Make sure you’re being charged a fair price by comparing prices for the same make, model, and year across several sources. You can easily do this using online tools like KBB and National Automobile Dealers Association Guides.

Although factors such as mileage and condition will affect the SUV’s selling price, checking these websites will give you a ballpark figure of the car’s market value. Knowing the vehicle’s fair purchase price also gives you some leverage when trying to haggle.

5. Test drive and visually inspect the car 

Lastly, inspect the car visually. Most CPO vehicles are at least two years old, so some wear and tear are expected even if the model has been restored. Examine the car for scratches, dents, and interior wear.

If you’re satisfied with the car’s condition, you can then take it out for a spin. Take the time to learn how to park the car, turn tight corners, drive over different road surfaces, and check for blind spots.

When you’re test-driving the vehicle, don’t just focus on its primary controls and driving feel. See if certain features could become irritating on day-to-day use, such as a trunk that’s difficult to operate or cup holders that are too small.

Buying a Used SUV in Phoenix

For used SUVs and other vehicles, trust only Canyon State Trucks. We’re a Credit Union Direct dealership in Phoenix, providing buyers with a selection of quality used trucks, SUVs, and diesels. We’ll help you secure all your credit union financing right here in-house, speeding up your car-buying process.

Check our used car inventory online. For inquiries, fill out our online form.