
Depreciation of vehicles is a wonderful thing, especially when you are in the market for a used luxury car. Many top-line sedans were once very expensive when coming off the line but drop in price significantly as a resale. You now have the opportunity to purchase a six-figure vehicle at a very reasonable price.
If you are considering the purchase of a used luxury vehicle, these are some things to keep in mind to save yourself time, money, and a big headache.
1. Make Sure the Vehicle has Been Updated and Inspected
It is highly suggested you make sure there has been a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) performed on a used luxury car before you hand over any payment. During a PPI, a trained technician who is familiar with the vehicle will inspect it from the roofline to the rims to look for any potential issues or problems. A PPI can cost about $100, but it could save you thousands when avoiding problems.
Another factor when purchasing a used luxury car is to ask the dealer about software updates as there may be new ones that can preemptively solve any issues with the vehicle. When all software is updated, you will avoid any headaches or frustration with certain systems in the car.
2. Inspect the Central Command System
The previous owner of a used luxury car could have experienced an accidental spill into the center console. Liquids will nuke the central command system, and you want to know this before purchasing the car. The BMW has an iDrive, the Mercedes has the COMAND, Audi has the MIMI, Cadillac has the CUE, and the Lexus has the RTI, and other brands have their specific command system.
To make sure the central command system is working in the used luxury car you are considering, you should run it through its paces:
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Connect your smartphone through Bluetooth
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Make a call
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Have someone return the call, so you can also take a call
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Play media through various sources
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Toggle through a few of the menus and commands to make sure the display screen and controller are working properly
Another piece of the central command system may be a joystick or dial. If the car you are considering has either of these make sure they work in all directions. Check to make sure the dial or joystick does not stick as it will need a replacement if this is the case. Having to do a hard reset or total replacement of the command system could end up costing a lot of dollars.
3. Test all Features
Don't be too anxious to get your new ride on the road. Purchasing a used luxury car should involve time to test all the vehicle's features. Spend some time and try every high-tech luxury feature.
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Test the radio and make sure it is operating
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If it has a power trunk, test to make sure it works
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Ventilated seats should operate if in the model you are considering
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Is there a rear-seat entertainment system? You want to make sure it operates
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Key-less entry should be tested
Different vehicles have different features, so you need to work through the car and test all of them. If any features do not work, the time to learn about them is before you drive away.
Where to Find Quality Pre-Owned Luxury Vehicles
Auto Web Expo knows the Plano and Dallas area drivers. We understand you have a taste for luxury and are here to provide you with quality, pre-owned, luxury cars. We can put you behind the wheel of the car you've always dreamed of owning for an affordable price. See us today and learn about our incredible luxury cars available, our committed maintenance plans, and affordable financing.