Are you contemplating purchasing a used car near Elgin, IA? This is a good way to save money while also acquiring a reliable vehicle. Here are some tips to help you along the way and ensure everything goes smoothly at our dealership.

1. Identify the Long-Term Costs 

One of the biggest advantages of buying a pre-owned car is the lower cost. However, the money-saving benefits go beyond a used vehicle’s price.

Calculate the monthly and yearly expenses and how much more you would save compared to a new vehicle. Keep in mind that used cars tend to have lower insurance rates and annual registration fees.

2. Foot a Larger Down Payment

Whether you’re buying a new or used car, a good rule of thumb is to aim for a 20-percent down payment. Fortunately, this is easier to accomplish on a used car since the total cost is lower. A larger down payment means a shorter loan repayment duration; in turn, this saves you on the interest rate.

3. Consider a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Model

CPO cars cost more than their non-CPO counterparts. However, CPO vehicles could end up saving you money in the long-term.

With a CPO car purchase comes many perks, mainly in the form of limited and powertrain warranties. It also includes a year of complimentary 24/7 roadside assistance. This can save you tremendously on repairs should a breakdown occur or you need major servicing. The fact that CPO vehicles have Mopar® OEM parts means serious repairs are less likely to occur in the first place.

Come and see our pre-owned inventory at Brown's Elkader Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM. We carry tons of used models like the Jeep Cherokee and more.