The second-hand automotive market in Nova Scotia holds tremendous promise for car enthusiasts. It’s amazing to purchase just three- to four-year-old cars that have undergone as much as 35% to 40% depreciation. However, purchasing a used car comes with some inherent challenges. What about checking the mechanical components of the vehicle to ensure optimal performance?
After learning the top tips for buying a used car in Nova Scotia, click here to explore affordable insurance options for your second-hand vehicle in Nova Scotia. Established insurance brokers can help you choose the right package.
Table of Contents
Things you should check before purchasing a used car in Nova Scotia
Wondering how to buy a used car in Nova Scotia? Here are a few things you must consider.
1. Vehicle particulars
Before buying a used car in Nova Scotia, it pays to do homework. So, list down the criteria that define the type of car you are willing to invest in. For instance, you might consider the following:
- Maintenance expenses
- Fuel economy
- Your budget
- Associated taxes
- Safety features
- Trunk space
Based on these standard parameters, the price of a used car in Nova Scotia can range from $5,000 to $30,000. Explore different dealerships, advertisements, and listings to find the right vehicle. It would be wise to go for third-party listings since buyers generally find updated information about the car.
2. Research local used car dealers online
Now that you have decided on the make and model to purchase, take your time researching. Explore popular automotive blogs and communities to find out previous customers’ views on the vehicle. Also, look at online platforms to find probable complaints about the model. This way, you can also gauge the car’s resale worth, that’ll help you negotiate a fruitful bargain.
Compared to private sellers, it’s wise to get a second-hand car from a dealer. This reduces your chances of getting scammed. Dealers are experienced in selling second-hand vehicles. Reputed car dealers won’t sell damaged vehicles to uphold their brand value.
Also, you might ask specific questions to the seller before purchasing the vehicle.
3. Test drive the used car
Now, it’s time to test how it feels while sitting at the steering wheel. The test drive is often the key decision maker on whether you should proceed with your purchase. Make sure to hire an automotive expert when you test drive the car.
Inspect the existing condition of the car, including key systems like the brake and suspension. Also, take note of the performance of the car, dashboard, and acceleration. Drive the car on different routes, including the ones you would be regularly plying. If you are comfortable with the vehicle’s operation, you can proceed with the purchase.
4. Mechanical inspection
When you purchase a second-hand vehicle, hire an authentic third party to get it inspected mechanically. What if the vehicle looks fine superficially while the underlying issues come back to haunt you after a couple of months? A skeptical inspection of the car’s internal components would give you a comprehensive overview of its mechanical robustness. This way, you will be able to detect the possibility of technical glitches in the future.
If the inspection report looks unsatisfactory, you may have to settle for a different vehicle. What’s the point of buying a used car if it attracts frequent repair costs?
5. Registering the car
Registering the second-hand car under your name is the final step when you purchase the vehicle. Also, you need to consider the insurance and government requirements to become the car’s legal owner.
It’s recommended to approach a dealer to purchase a used car. These professionals would guide you over all these aspects. You might also need their assistance with the paperwork. On the other hand, purchasing a used car from private sellers tends to be laborious and time-intensive.
How to insure a used car in Nova Scotia
Now that you have decided to purchase a used car in Nova Scotia, you need to get it insured. As you know, all cars in Canada should have proper insurance coverage before you can drive them on the road. So, even before registering the car under your name, it should have insurance. In most cases, the seller’s insurance gets transferred to you to provide some kind of coverage for the car. Later, you need to get a suitable policy on consulting the insurance brokers.
Car owners in Nova Scotia should have the following types of coverage for their cars.
- Liability coverage: This coverage will financially secure you in case you happen to damage any property or cause any injury to others after an accident.
- Physical damage: Although this is not mandatory coverage, it makes sense to secure your car against physical damage. Go for comprehensive coverage or collision insurance cover to protect your car against physical damage.
- Accident benefits: Apart from covering damage to cars and property, it pays to have accident benefits. This coverage will help you manage the treatment or medical costs if you sustain injuries during an accident.
It’s logical to note what’s not covered under the existing insurance policy. Accordingly, you need to go for an upgrade. For instance, you might want to secure your used car against mechanical breakdown, rust, and corrosion. Based on your requirements and risk exposure, you can purchase the policies.
Endnote
Are you considering buying a used car in Nova Scotia? To find affordable insurance policies that suit the vehicle, reach out to reputed insurance brokers. This ensures that you need not waste time comparing dozens of policies from leading insurers. The brokers will recommend the best package to suit your requirements. Accordingly, you can upgrade the existing insurance policy after purchasing the second-hand car from the dealer or owner.
Remember, forgetting to check the insurance can land you in legal trouble. The last thing you would expect is an accident while driving the car home after purchasing it. Ensure adequate coverage when you purchase a used vehicle in Nova Scotia. Hopefully, you can purchase the vehicle from the automotive aftermarket, prioritizing your needs.