If you're in the market for a new vehicle, but the sticker shock has you discouraged, consider buying a used car from a reputable dealer like Hometown Auto. For a fraction of the price, you can upgrade your vehicle without the long term commitment and hassles of a typical dealership.  Here are some important things to consider when buying a used car.

• Determine how much you can afford before you visit Hometown Auto. By knowing your budget, we can help you narrow down choices that will work. As a general rule of thumb, your car payment should never be more than 20% of your take home pay. Be sure to account for fuel, repairs, and labor in your budgeting, too.
• Compile a list of good used cars based on reviews. After you decide on a few brands that meet your lifestyle and budget, visit Hometown Auto to check out our inventory. Even if you do not see what you're looking for on the lot, we may be able to find a comparable brand within your budget.
• Test drive the car. You may like the look of a car, but driving it may change your mind. It may not be the right make and model for you. Make sure you're comfortable, get a feel for the ride, check the visibility, and inspect all operating systems of the vehicle.
• Have the car inspected if it doesn't have a pre-purchase inspection. It's a smart investment that can alert you to problems you may not know about. The cost is about $100 if you need to get your own mechanic. At Hometown Auto, every vehicle is thoroughly inspected before it's placed on the lot. We spend an average of $800 per vehicle to ensure safety and reliability.

Buying a used car might be the right decision for you, especially if you have a limited budget. Our Buy Here, Pay Here program can help anyone with bad credit or no credit history. At Hometown Auto, quality and safety are our top priority.