Washington is wrapped in nature’s beauty. Diverse terrains make it even more stunning. From the rugged-pure beaches, high-rise mountains, desert lands, green forests to active volcanoes, the state has everything. Well, to explore the Evergreen State, you need to have a good transportation facility.
Even though public transportation is available in Washington, remote areas require a car. Washington’s state routes are well-developed and offer great connectivity. And a car will obviously give you the much needed freedom. Imagine you don’t have to leave early to catch the bus, because you have a car. It will take you faster - anywhere and everywhere you want.
Once you decide on buying a car, you will have to think about several things. This article gives you a comprehensive explanation of the many things involved in buying a car.
Money Makes the World Go Round
It may sound cliché to you, but it’s the fact. You need money to buy everything. Although you always have the option of loans, it is better if you have some cash with you.
Car is not an expense, it is an investment. Your car will be with you for more than 3 years. Hence, you must take a well-thought out decision.
Consider several expenses that you will have to incur over the years. It starts with the registration process, taxes, insurance and fuel. Also consider the maintenance of car. I would like to advise that you should go for a car only when you can afford it. There is no point in buying a car which becomes a trouble for you.
Also think of car loans. There are several options for you in the State of Washington. You can visit lenders and dealers or also get online and search for an auto lending company. The best thing about using the web is that you don’t have to get out of your house to avail an auto loan. So, get online and search for your perfect car loan.
Thinking of finance is useful as it will help you to narrow down your list.
Do You Believe In “Old Is Gold”?
A car’s basic work is providing you comfort and quick travel. And, with technological advancement, cars run many more miles than before. So, a pre-owned car can easily work for you. If you don’t consider new car as a status symbol, then a used car is just fine for you.
After you decide on the used car, it’s time to move on to the next set of questions.
What’s The Purpose of Your Car?
Every individual needs a car for different reasons. So, decide why you need it. If you have a large family, a minivan will be useful to you. If your job requires more of off-road driving, then SUV will suit you. If you live in the Olympic Peninsula, then a convertible won’t be of much to you. As the region receives heavy rains, you will need something like SUV to tackle the muddy roads.
Also, make a list of all the car applications that you require in your car. So, if you need power steering, write it. Mention things like good mileage, safety devices, stereo, etc.
What Are The Car Buying Options In Washington?
The State provides you many options to choose your favorite car. You can go to a local dealer and search for the car. You can also go for the private party auto loans option by buying a car from your neighbor or your cousin. Web is the latest addition to the list. Just type - in the car you want and you will get a long list of options to choose from.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should and must avoid dealing with a curbstoner. The Washington State Department of Licensing is very active in spreading awareness regarding such dubious individuals. A curbstoner often poses as the owner of the car but actually is an unlicensed dealer. If you buy a car from him, then transferring car title to your name becomes difficult.
Does Choosing A Car Ends The Process?
Well, the answer is no. First of all you must never choose a single car. Have at least 2-3 options with you. Consider these cars on the basis of following factors and choose your perfect car.
Take Precautions Against Lemon
The Washington State lemon law is for new cars, but even pre-owned cars can be covered under it. Confused?
Well, let’s make it clear.
You cannot just call your car lemon and get your money back. It needs to be certified by an arbitrator. Now the arbitration request can be filed by second or subsequent owners if the vehicle was purchased within 2 years of the first delivery (delivery to the original retail consumer) and the car has no more than 24,000 miles on the odometer. The other condition is that a request must be received by the Lemon Law Administration within 30 months of the original retail delivery date.
This means that if your car is older than 2 years or has an odometer reading of more than 24,000 miles, you are not protected by the Washington State Lemon Law.
So, whenever you buy a used car make sure that the vehicle is working fine and it comes with manufacturer’s warranty. If you don’t do so, then settling claims will become a very torturous experience.
What’s The Vehicle’s Story?
Get the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of all the cars that you have chosen. Once you put the number in the database, you will get information about the car. It will give you detail of the car’s history - problems, accidents, repairs. Also, call the previous owner and ask him about his experience with the car.
What’s Your Car’s Score (Miles)?
To buy a great car, it is important that you stay away from odometer fraud. Check the condition of pedals and the tires. The original tires generally last for 60,000 miles. So, if you see new tires and a lesser odometer reading, be alert.
Also, check for warranty cards and service reminders to get more idea about the car miles.
Clean Car Emission Requirements
After you choose your favorites, make sure they meet the clean air requirements. If your car is older than 2009, you won’t require to be certified. Also, previously-registered vehicles with more than 7,500 miles won’t require the certificate.
But all other cars which are newer than 2009 and have odometer readings lesser than 7,500 miles are required to fulfill the requirements.
To check whether the car is certified, ask the seller/dealer and also check the VECI label. The Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) label in the engine compartment will help you know whether the vehicle is certified.
Clean and Clear- That’s how The Title Should Be!
The car’s title will establish you as the legal owner of the car. The title should be valid and shouldn’t have any liens against it. If you want to check a car title, you can contact the Washington State Department of Licensing at (360) 902-3770.
Mechanic - Proof
Once you are sure about the car, get it checked from the expert.
Ask your trusted mechanic to do a thorough check. Ask him to tell you clearly about any faults and problems.
As the mechanic approves your choice, you will be assured of your choice.
Do remember the simple adage of our schooldays – Precaution is better than cure. Take proper precautions in buying a car, it is hundred times better than sulking over a bad car decision.
So, don’t forget the tips. Get your own car and explore the beautiful State of Washington!
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