Buying a used car can feel like going on a first date–you’re excited about the potential and on the surface, everything seems positive, but you’re still hesitant about the reality of entering into a long-term relationship.

Exploring your options for used cars in Orangeburg, SC, can be overwhelming. While you’ve set aside your non-negotiables and wants, how do you determine which used Nissan will be a match made in used car heaven and which will have you wishing you never ventured down this path in the first place?

Before you head down to one of the leading used car dealerships near Columbia, SC, our team will help you figure out what to look for when buying a used car and how a visit to Nissan of Orangeburg may be just what you’re looking for!

Learn the Right Questions to Ask

One of the most critical aspects of buying a used car is asking the right questions. By knowing what questions to ask, you’ll be able to determine if the used Nissan you have your eye on is worthy of a second look or if you’ll be saying, “It’s not me, it’s you.”

How Many Miles Does it Have?

A vehicle’s mileage is often one of the first things you look at when choosing a car. An average vehicle is driven between 10,000 and 15,000 miles per year. If the total mileage averages more than 20,000 per year or less than 5,000, try to determine the reason.

While lower mileage may sound like a positive, it could also mean that the car’s components may experience wear and degradation due to infrequent use. The idea is similar for high-mileage cars. If a car was used primarily for long highway commutes, it could have less wear and tear than a high-mileage car due to short trips. Discuss the vehicle's mileage and usage with the seller, and you’ll probably find the information you need to make an informed decision.

What Additional Features is the Vehicle Equipped With?

Asking this question will determine if the vehicle meets your non-negotiables and wants. Is Bluetooth connectivity a must-have feature, or does the full extent of safety equipment take precedence? Knowing which features your used Nissan has — and which it does not — will allow you to decide whether you want to move forward or call it quits.

What’s the Car’s Condition?

A car’s past can shed some much-needed light on its future reliability. Keeping this question broad can leave room open for information you wouldn’t have thought to ask, or determining if it’s worth your time to move forward.

For example, if a car were involved in a crash, the extent of the damage and repairs might be a dealbreaker. However, if you discover that the car underwent regular routine maintenance checks as indicated in the service records, it suggests that it was well-maintained and may have a longer lifespan than other used cars for sale in Orangeburg, SC.

Consider an Inspection–Both By You and a Trusted Mechanic

As one of the leading used car dealerships in Orangeburg, SC, we make sure that our used vehicle inventory is worth a second look. We always provide a vehicle history report, and our pre-owned inventory undergoes a hands-on inspection at our Nissan service center.

However, for your own peace of mind, it’s essential to know what to look for when you do your own quick inspection. Consider the following:

• Check the body for imperfections, such as discolored paint or dents
• Inspect the windows for chips and cracks
• Open all the doors to ensure they are working well
• Inspect under the hood for any signs of wear and degradation

While we aim to offer quality in our used vehicle inventory, consider a certified pre-owned Nissan in Orangeburg for added peace of mind. Our CPO vehicles undergo a rigorous inspection process and must meet specific requirements before they’re eligible for the CPO label, ensuring that you receive a high-quality ride at a fraction of the price of a new Nissan.

Take a Test Drive

While it can be easy to focus on the surface-level attributes of a used vehicle, nothing is more telling than a test drive.

When you take a test drive in a used Nissan, be aware of the following elements:

• Odd sounds: Hearing unusual noises during the test drive is a red flag, as it could indicate a larger issue with the vehicle than a surface inspection suggested.
• Water damage: Take a good look inside for any signs of water or flood damage. A musty smell or a leak in the frame or windows may indicate that the vehicle has had prior water damage.
• A/C function: Even if it is cool outside, make sure the A/C is working properly.
• Electronic function: Check the electrical components of your used vehicle. Do the windows roll down easily? Are the headlights and brake lights functioning like they should? Does Bluetooth function seamlessly?

Shop for a Used Car with Nissan of Orangeburg Today!

Shopping for a used car does not have to be a question of reliability or trust, specifically if you know where to go.

At Nissan of Orangeburg, we make sure that your car-buying experience is seamless and stress-free. We’ll help you find the used vehicle that fits your qualifications without the hassle or stress.

Browse our pre-owned inventory, then head on down to our Nissan dealership today for a test drive!