3 Tips for Shopping for a Used Car in Winter

The winter months are generally quieter for auto sales. But if you need to change your vehicle, you need to follow the same steps and conduct the same checks as you would the rest of the year.

Here are three tips to keep in mind if you're shopping for a used vehicle during the colder months.

Shopping Online and On-Site

The cold weather encourages many people to stay in and conduct online transactions. While it's great to search through different platforms and check inventories on car dealership websites, nothing beats a visit to the dealership, especially when it comes to a used car. An in-person visual inspection will tell you a lot about the actual condition of the vehicle you've been eyeing and may lead you to consider another model. This is essential to making the best choice possible.

Out with the Snow and Ice

Don't let snow and ice cloud your savvy shopper judgment. If you're attracted to a vehicle but it's sitting in the yard covered in snow, ask the dealer to bring it inside to thaw out so you can give it a good look, whether it's to inspect it for rust, or spot dents and scratches. If it's still dirty for some reason, insist on a quick wash. During the process, watch for snow or ice accumulations in key areas, such as the bottom of the windshield or the junction of the roof and tailgate.

A Test Drive is a Must

The last thing you want to make sure you do is to take a test drive. Just because it's the middle of winter or you're anxious to switch vehicles doesn't mean you should skip this step. In fact, the test drive is more important than ever during winter.

You'll have the opportunity to test HVAC performance, defroster, electrical systems, wipers, as well as the brakes and tires on cold and potentially slippery roads. If the vehicle is equipped with an all-wheel drive system, try testing it on different surfaces. It's important to make sure that the vehicle's handling is up to expectations in all seasons.

Happy shopping!