Checklist for Buying Used Vehicles

August 8th, 2018 by

BMW Hybrid Models

Shopping for a used car can seem daunting, Luckily, Rallye BMW has created a used car buying checklist to make your job a little bit easier! Whether shopping for a used BMW 3 Series or a used BMW X5, if you follow these tips you can find a pre-owned vehicle you will love for years to come.

Your Used Car Buying Checklist

  • Create a budget: Setting a budget keeps you from getting in to trouble. Consider monthly payments, as well as total cost you are will to pay. Also, value your trade to see what you can expect to get when trading in your current car.
  • Prioritize features: Create a list of must-haves and would-be-nice-to-haves when looking for your next vehicle.
  • Research: There are plenty of used vehicles out there, so research models in your chosen class (i.e., sedan or SUV), then make a list of top options. You can check prices online using resources like Kelley Blue Book.
  • Ask the important questions: Make sure you know if the car you are interested in has been in an accident, how many owners it’s had, current condition, and how many miles are on the odometer.
  • Inspect the vehicle: Test out lights, windows, and electronics to make sure they are in working order. Give a thorough inspection for rust, floor damage, or signs of repair.
  • Go for a test drive: When taking a test drive, don’t just go around the block. Try a test drive from Westbury to Jericho to get the feel for how the vehicle really handles. Ideally, try to get up to 60 mph to make sure you vehicle performs well at higher speeds.
  • Get a vehicle history report: Get a history report from reliable sources like CARFAX or Autocheck to find out valuable vehicle information. All you need is the vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  • Shop at a dealership: Avoid getting scammed by that too good to be true Craigslist ad. At Rallye BMW, we offer a selection of Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) models, which offer the additional security of a warranty.

Browse Our Used Vehicle Inventory at Rallye BMW

You should find a wide selection of used BMW vehicles and non-BMW vehicles in our inventory. You can also learn more about the X3 performance or other features with us. Contact us today.


Latest News from Rallye BMW

  • 2026 Center of Excellence Award

    We are proud to announce that BMW of North America has announced its annual Center of Excellence (COE) award winners, recognizing 32 BMW dealers across the U.S. for having delivered exceptional results in sales, service, and customer experience. And Rallye BMW was among those to be granted this honor.   Contact UsNew BMW Inventory   As…

  • BMW vs. Audi: A Deep Dive into Reliability

    When it comes to purchasing a luxury vehicle, a brand’s reputation for reliability is a critical factor. For drivers considering a German automobile, the debate often centers on two iconic names: BMW and Audi. Both are celebrated for their performance, technology, and sophisticated design, but how do they stack up when it comes to long-term…

  • 2026 BMW 2 Series vs 3 Series: Which Model Fits You Best?

    Key Differences Between the 2026 BMW 2 Series and 3 Series For those exploring entry points into BMW’s luxury lineup, the 2026 BMW 2 Series and 3 Series stand out as two of the most compelling options. While they share performance DNA and core BMW values, they serve different audiences in terms of design, practicality,…

Posted in Buying a Vehicle