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What_Is_the_Best_Pickup_Truck_to_Buy_Used_6_Great_Used_Truck_Models_Fort Smith_AR

What Is the Best Pickup Truck to Buy Used? 6 Great Used Truck Models

Brand new trucks are expensive, and if you want one of the best, you're going to have to pay even more. Fortunately, there are plenty of used trucks that are just as reliable as the day they rolled off the assembly line. The best pickup truck to buy used is one that won't leave you in a lurch when you need it most. Try one of these great used truck models the next time you're in the market for one. Honda Ridgeline Not only is the Honda Ridgeline the most reliable used truck available, but it also provides superior handling and a smooth ride. When a pickup truck has a smooth ride, you know you've hit gold. The truck bed itself is a bit short, but there is a hidden lockable storage area under the cargo box floor which allows you to haul more than you think you can. Moreover, the two-way tailgate makes the truck simple to load as well. more Cadillac Escalade EXT You knew there had to be a luxury pickup truck on this list, and here it is. The Cadillac Escalade EXT provides a luxury ride while still offering a truck bed to haul just about anything you need. Its cargo box is fairly short, but the midgate on later models easily allows you to carry longer cargo as long as you secure it. As with most luxury vehicles, there is plenty of space in both the front and back seats. Ford Ranger The Ford Ranger has proven to be such a popular truck that Ford made the decision to put it back in its vehicle lineup. However, used Ford Rangers are still in high demand. When you visualize a pickup truck, the Ford Ranger is what you see. It doesn't offer much in the way of fancy features, but it performs exactly as a truck should. It's reliable and durable, making it an overall great choice for hauling all sorts of stuff. GMC Sierra 1500 This full-sized pickup truck is considered a best-used buy because of its relative fuel efficiency. You get all the awesome power of a V8 engine, but you also save on gas money, which is an anomaly for a truck of this size. Additionally, the hauling and towing capabilities of the GMC Sierra 1500 are second to none for a truck in this class. You won't have any regrets with this truck both in terms of size and usefulness. Chevrolet Avalanche Essentially, the Chevrolet Avalanche the same vehicle as a Chevrolet Suburban with a short truck bed instead of an enclosed cargo area. Even though the cargo box is short, the midgate allows you to haul longer cargo when you fold down the rear seats. This is an ideal choice for someone who needs both a pickup truck and a family vehicle. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Chevy is known for its trucks, which explains why two of them make this list. If you're looking for a top choice for towing and hauling while still having a nice passenger cabin, this is the truck for you. Reliability and durability round out the qualities that make the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 one of the best-used pickup trucks you can buy. If you're in the market for a pickup truck but are having sticker shock over the new truck prices, consider one of these six used trucks instead. Come by Rath Auto Resources today to see our fantastic used vehicle inventory and take one for a test drive!

7 Benefits of Purchasing a Used Hyundai Fort Smith AR

7 Benefits of Purchasing a Used Hyundai

A used car can provide the same satisfaction as a new car. If you are eyeing a Hyundai car but you are having a hard time choosing between a new or used one, here are seven benefits of purchasing a used Hyundai: 1. Lower Price Used cars are always cheaper than new ones. Your budget may only afford you an entry-level or base trim Hyundai on the new market, but that same budget could buy you a significantly better equipped or more luxurious used car in a higher trim. more 2. Certified Pre-Owned Options Hyundai dealerships offer a large selection of Certified Pre-Owned models for those shoppers apprehensive about used cars. All Hyundai Certified Pre-Owned vehicles undergo a comprehensive quality assurance inspection performed by professional technicians. Additionally, they come with a manufacturer-backed warranty. The requirements for certification include: A maximum of five years old with less than 60,000 miles A clean, non-branded title as verified by a Vehicle History Report 3. Less Depreciation New cars are subject to the inevitable law of depreciation, making used cars an ideal choice, especially if you also plan to sell later. A new car loses value as soon as you drive off the lot. Although some models handle depreciation better than others, you can expect a brand-new car to lose about 30-percent of its value in the first two years of ownership. 4. Variety When you have no problem with used cars, you have a virtually endless supply of inventory to choose from. You are not limited to models that were released over the past year or two. Also, whether you are looking for a car, SUV, van, or other vehicle type, there's sure to be a suitable pre-owned option that fits your lifestyle and needs. 5. Less Stress Over Dings and Bumps A practical benefit from buying a used car is you do not have to be the first person to put a scratch on it. A spotless new vehicle creates a stressful situation for many drivers when it gets a bump or a scrape. Since you are not the first owner, you might find yourself much less stressed if you accidentally ding a used vehicle's door. 6. Lower Insurance Rates Insurance companies consider the car's value when determining rates since the more valuable a vehicle is, the more money they will have to shell out in the case of a wreck. A used car will cost less to insure than a new one due to depreciation. 7. Cheaper Registration Fees Your annual registration fee rate is based on your car's value and model year in most states. It is highest in the first three years but levels off after five years. Buying a vehicle that is at least three years old will save you about a thousand dollars in new and annual registration fees. Contrary to the false impression that purchasing a used car means settling for an unreliable vehicle, buying a used Hyundai comes with plenty of benefits. Visit Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR, to check out our collection of used Hyundai models.

2019 Hyundai Elantra SEL

3 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Car

As long as you maintain it regularly and make repairs when needed, a good vehicle can serve you and your family for years or even decades. However, every car eventually experiences so much wear that it becomes difficult to operate. Here are some of the most common signs that you should trade in your old car for a newer model with better features and more power. 1. You Need Repairs Often No matter how new your ride is, you'll always need regular maintenance and some occasional repair. However, when problems become more frequent and severe, it could be a sign that your vehicle is reaching the end of its life. Having to get constant repairs is annoying and inconvenient, and the costs for replacing important components such as the transmission often exceeds the value of an older car, truck, or SUV. Instead of dealing with constant issues and worrying about whether you can make it to your next destination without a breakdown, use the money you would otherwise spend on repairs to invest in a newer vehicle. more 2. Fuel Efficiency Drops If you notice that your visits to the gas pump are becoming more and more frequent, it may be a sign that your engine's efficiency is falling. At first, the increase in cost may seem small, but those dollars and cents can pile up quickly over time. The drop in efficiency could be from a relatively minor issue like a dirty fuel injector, or you could have a more severe problem. You should get your car inspected by a professional to find out how much repairs will cost. Since newer vehicles are much more efficient than the options available a few years ago, replacing your car will make your fuel costs lower than ever. Using an efficient hybrid or electric vehicle can reduce your transportation costs most over time. 3. Your Vehicle Becomes Unsafe If your car's axles become unstable, your engine's pistons knock loudly and frequently, or your belt system is wearing out belts regularly, you could have an issue that risks the safety of you and your passengers. Unstable axles can lead to a lost wheel or a broken axle, causing a serious accident. Replacing belts can often get expensive quickly, and you could get into a wreck if a belt snaps while you're moving down a highway. Engine pistons that knock loudly often signal an upcoming engine failure. If you start hearing strange noises, have your vehicle checked by an expert. You could also notice a burning smell from excess friction on your belts, an engine that's too hot, or faulty wiring. Your vehicle's electronics could stop working, and you could even have to deal with a fire near the engine. These risks often mean that insuring an older vehicle is more expensive than insuring a newer car. Many insurance companies also give discounts for safety and driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assistance, blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. When it's time to trade in your old vehicle, head to Rath Auto Services. Their experienced staff will guide you through their impressive inventory and help you find your ideal vehicle. Image via RathAuto.com

2013 Toyota Highlander

Top 3 Used Cars For Families

Are you looking for a great new family vehicle but don't want to spend what a new car often costs? We've got you covered. These are a few of the many great used-car options to consider when buying your next family vehicle. Toyota Venza The Toyota Venza is a great midsize SUV that will keep your family safe and comfortable. The 2015 Venza model is your best option and offers a wide platform and five-seat configuration for passenger roominess and comfort. Its wagon-like appearance is a nice change from your typical crossover or minivan and keeps you looking stylish on the road. more The 2015 Venza has several competitive features you can enjoy, including the 6.1-inch touchscreen with enhanced infotainment options and a rearview camera to assist you when backing up. It's also equipped with a six-speaker sound system with voice controls, a navigation system, and smartphone compatibility. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V has been a family favorite for years due to its efficiency, practicality, and high level of comfort. For this compact SUV, stick to models that were built in 2015 or later, if your budget allows, to ensure you get the most up-to-date features. Each new model sees new interior and exterior upgrades that make driving this SUV truly enjoyable. Great features of the Honda CR-V in 2015 models and later include LED daytime running lamps, projector-beam headlamps, a sunroof, and a push-button start. Other features of the CR-V include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Honda LaneWatch, which is a passenger-side blind spot camera to prevent you from colliding with vehicles in your blind spot. The 2015 Honda CR-V and its predecessors are designed to earn top-level collision safety ratings and received a five-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Toyota Highlander The Toyota Highlander has long been loved by drivers for years thanks to its reliability and roominess. A great used Highlander is the 2012 model that boasts several storage spaces, a three-passenger second row, and upgraded interior compared to previous models. It gets great fuel economy with the standard base engine and has excellent maneuverability to make everything from sharp turns and to parallel parking a breeze. The 2012 Toyota Highlander can comfortably seat seven passengers with room to boot, so you won't have to worry about making two trips when you have extra cargo to transport. There are three different trim levels available for this model including the base Highlander, the SE, and the Limited. The SE tends to be the best bang for your buck and comes equipped with heated front seats, a multi-information display, leather upholstery, and satellite radio. Some 2012 Highlander models also include a rearview camera for added safety when backing up. These used vehicles are as reliable as they are comfortable and can easily accommodate both large and small families. From soccer games to cross-country excursions, these used cars can meet all of you and your family's automobile needs. Image via RathAuto.com

2019 Mitsubishi Outlander

4 Ways to Whip Your Credit Into Shape Before Applying for a Car Loan

Buying a car is an exciting time in your life, especially as you compare features and pick out the model that is best suited for your lifestyle. If your credit score is low, you may end up with a higher interest rate on your auto loan. Check out these helpful tips to whip your credit into shape before you apply for the loan. 1. Check Your Credit Report It's important to know what's on your credit report that may be causing the number to go down. The three major credit bureaus, TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax, will each produce a separate report and score, so review a report that includes information from all three of these agencies. Your credit report could contain errors or other issues that are causing your score to drop. more Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you can receive a free copy of your report every year, so visit AnnualCreditReport.com to get started. If you do find an error, you can file a dispute to get it removed, which should help your score to go up. 2. Stay On Top of Payments Late payments can seriously impact your credit, so make sure you're paying everything on time. Staying on top of deadlines and current with payment requirements is the best way to avoid delinquency that can cause your score to go down. If you have a single late payment due to an oversight, you may be able to talk to the lender or creditor to see if they will forgive the mistake and remove it. You're more likely to get a positive response if you have a history of making all your payments on time and they can see that this was a one-time mistake. If you have trouble remembering to make payments on time, consider setting up auto-pay to avoid late payments in the future. 3. Pay Down Your Debt A major factor used in calculating your credit score is your debt-to-income ratio. If your debt amount is high, look for ways to pay it down to lessen the ratio, which can potentially help your score go up. Debt consolidation is one option, which allows you to make one monthly payment rather than paying down each debt individually. If you have debts with higher interest rates, such as credit cards, focus on paying those down first. 4. Maintain Low Balances Another helpful tip to boost your credit score is to maintain low balances on all your open credit accounts. The amount of credit available to you versus the amount you're using is called the credit utilization ratio. Those with high credit scores usually have low credit utilization ratios. When a lender looks at your credit history, they will likely want to see a utilization ratio of 30% or lower. You can improve your ratio by keeping balances low on your credit cards and paying down debt. If you have a family member with good credit, becoming an authorized user on their account can also positively influence your ratio. Use these tips to improve your credit score and potentially lower the interest rate on your auto loan. Then visit us at Rath Auto Resources to find the perfect vehicle and get a great deal. Image via RathAuto.com

2019 Toyota 4Runner

4 Used Cars That Best Hold Their Value

Owning a car is expensive, but some cars hold their value better than others. A new car takes the biggest hit in depreciation within the first year of ownership. Check out a few of the used cars that maintain their value most as you're deciding which vehicle to buy. 1. Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback has consistently earned a spot on Kelley Blue Book's “Best Resale Value” list over the past 17 years. This hatchback model is a great option for a wide range of buyers, including families and adventure-seekers. It's spacious, offering a large backseat with room for taller passengers and child car seats, and boasts a big cargo area for all your essentials. more This crossover is also quite efficient. When you choose the standard four-cylinder engine, you can save at the pump without sacrificing too much power. In 2018, Subaru started including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, while the auto company's EyeSight driver assistance package became standard in 2019. 2. Toyota 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner is another model that holds its value well. This truck-based SUV is unique in that it's designed for utility in a world where most crossovers are geared toward comfort. Toyota has maintained the body-on-frame platform for this particular member of its lineup, prioritizing towing capacity and off-road capabilities. It is available with a third row of seating, which makes it an option for larger families, especially those that like to spend their weekends exploring. 3. Nissan Frontier Most pickup trucks consistently maintain their value better than other models, and one example of this is the Nissan Frontier. It's been around since Nissan launched it in 2005, although it has undergone a number of interior and exterior design enhancements. This mid-sized pickup has several available bed lengths and cab sizes to accommodate every need. You can also count on the reliability of the four- and six-cylinder engines that boast impressive power output and large displacement. 4. Subaru Forester The Subaru Forester earned a spot on KBB's “ 12 Best Family Cars” in 2019, but it's also a model that holds its value very well. Subaru redesigned the popular crossover in 2019, featuring the same global platform as the Crosstrek, which has been very well-received. Some of the most appealing enhancements to the 2019 model include more interior space in both rows of seating and a wider opening to load bulky items into the cargo area. If you plan to take your Forester off the beaten path, you'll appreciate the 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Certain upgrades also make the Forester more valuable, as well as more luxurious. This crossover is available with an all-weather package that includes heated side mirrors and front seats, along with a windshield de-icer, dual rear-seat USB ports, and roof rails to help you carry your adventure gear. The 2019 model also comes standard with EyeSight, Subaru's safety suite that includes automatic braking and throttle management, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. At Rath Auto Resources, we have an extensive selection of pre-owned models that hold their value. Shop our inventory to pick out the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle. Image via RathAuto.com

2019 Toyota 4Runner SR5

5 Used Car Models That Boast a High Resale Value

There are several important things to keep in mind when considering a used car: vehicle history, mileage, inspection reports, and resale value. Resale value is basically what the car will be worth once it's driven for a few years and you attempt to sell it or trade it in. Certain makes and models hold their values better than others, so it's good to know which models are likely to earn you some good money or a nice trade-in when you're ready for a different vehicle. Here are five used car models that are known for high resale values. 1. Jeep Wrangler The Wrangler is a beloved SUV thanks to its unique style, rich history, and impressive capability. Car buyers are always looking to buy used Wranglers, and high demand means high value. Because they are built to withstand rough terrain, they tend to hold up well over the years, especially if they're mostly driven on city roads and highways. The new generation of Jeep Wrangler was introduced in 2018, so any used model after that year will hold a high value until the next generation comes out. more 2. Toyota Camry In the mid-size car category, the Toyota Camry does well across the board. These models are known for fuel efficiency, reliability, and high resale values. The Camry offers some legroom without sacrificing handling and agility. A new generation of Camry was introduced in 2018, so any models from that year on will hold value especially well in the coming years. 3. Dodge Challenger If you're looking for something with some serious kick and attitude, the Dodge Challenger is a great used car. This model tends to hold its value better than any other car in the muscle category. The Challenger pays homage to the classic muscle car and isn't distracted from power by unnecessary changes or frills. Dodge Challengers are only in their third generation, with the last major design overhaul in 2008. 4. Toyota 4Runner With off-road capability, an available third row, and impressive towing power, the Toyota 4Runner is always an attractive buy and therefore retains its value well. The newest generation of 4Runners was introduced in 2010, with several upgrades to technology and safety since then. Toyota 4Runners are ideal for true adventurers who need plenty of space for passengers or cargo or for drivers who live off the beaten path. 5. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Finally, drivers looking for a full-size pickup truck will find strong resale value in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This beast of a truck is built to last and it will. Recently introduced with a new design in 2019, the Silverado 1500 is all up-to-date. With luxurious interior options and a roomy cab, you can not only tow up to 12,200 pounds but enjoy comfort at the same time.  Whether you're looking to trade in your vehicle or buy a car that's new to you, head into Rath Auto Resources and let us help. We'll be happy to take you out for a few test drives. Image via RathAuto.com

2018 Dodge Grand Caravan GT

5 Reasons to Make Your Next Vehicle Purchase a Used One

A car is a huge purchase, and new cars are just getting more and more expensive. The sticker price of a new car is just one of the reasons to consider buying a used vehicle, though. There are many other reasons that buying used makes more sense than buying new. Here are some reasons to make your next vehicle purchase a used one. 1. The Sticker Price You can save thousands of dollars when you buy a used car. According to recent data, you can save over $13,000 by choosing used over new. The biggest reason for this is depreciation. New cars depreciate quickly over the first five years, with the majority of it occurring in the first two years. While some makes hold their value better than others, the majority of new cars will lose 30% of their value in just the first year. more 2. The Availability of Certified Pre-Owned Cars Almost every automaker offers some kind of certified pre-owned program to help buyers feel more secure when they buy a used vehicle. A manufacturer pre-owned certified vehicle usually includes some kind of warranty based on mileage or time along with extras such as roadside assistance. Dealerships also offer certified programs too. You can often purchase a warranty on a used vehicle for extra peace of mind. 3. You Get More for Your Money If you go into sticker shock when looking at just the entry-level trims on new vehicles, consider what you can get in a used vehicle for the same amount of money or even less. Your budget will get you much more in the way of extras if you look at cars that are a few years old. The top-level trim for a three-year-old vehicle with low miles is a much better deal than the base trim of a new car. 4. Reduced Cost of Insurance and Registration The value of the car determines the cost of insurance. Since a used car has less value than a brand-new car, it will cost less to insure it. Once a vehicle is older, you can even drop some of the coverage to save even more money. Collision and theft insurance is not always necessary for older vehicles. Just like with car insurance, the cost of registration is based on the transaction price. The less you pay for a car, the less you'll have to pay to register it. 5. The Variety There are thousands of different makes and models of used vehicles available. Car manufacturers discontinue trims every year and discontinue models regularly. These become available as used vehicles that you can no longer find new. For example, many carmakers are switching to crossover SUVs and limit the number of sedans that they produce. If you look for a used sedan, you'll have tons of options available. These are just a few of the reasons that it is a good idea to buy a used vehicle instead of new. The initial costs are lower, it is cheaper to insure a used car, and you'll have lots of options. Image via RathAuto.com

2018 Toyota Corolla

Most Affordable Used Cars to Maintain

If you are in the market for a used car, you want to look at more than just the sticker price. In addition to the purchase price of a vehicle, you also need to consider the cost to maintain the vehicle. It is important to factor in all the costs of owning a vehicle before you purchase a car, truck, or SUV. You want a vehicle that is affordable not only to purchase, but also to maintain. Toyota Corolla The Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan with a reliable track record. Not only is this sedan priced right when shopping used, but it also is affordable to service. Owners can expect to pay $341 a year for maintenance, according to the RepairPal Index. more Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V is one of the most popular SUVs on the road, and for good reason. The CR-V is an affordable vehicle to get behind the wheel of. It also is trustworthy, with the 2017 model year earning the top spot on a CarMD list for most reliable used vehicles. Subaru Outback Vehicles require maintenance, so when it comes time to service your vehicle, you want a vehicle that is easy to care for and affordable to repair. The Subaru Outback is one of the best vehicles when it comes to affordable repairs. When the check engine light comes on, the average repair cost for a 2017 Outback is $60, according to CarMD. Honda Accord In the market for a family sedan? If so, the Accord is an excellent option for reliability and affordability. This mid-size sedan is spacious and trustworthy. When it comes to annual maintenance and repair costs, the Accord costs about $351, according to RepairPal Index. Lexus NX Looking for something luxurious? The Lexus NX is a luxury crossover SUV with a reliable track record. Both the 2016 and 2015 model years of the NX earned a spot in the top 10 on CarMD's most reliable used vehicles list. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Another trustworthy luxury vehicle is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This luxury sedan is affordable to repair when the check engine light comes on. The average cost for the 2016 model year is $85, according to CarMD. Ford Mustang Muscle car enthusiasts don't have to worry about breaking the bank with a Mustang. This classic car is affordable to care for when it comes to service costs and routine maintenance. The RepairPal Index estimates the Mustang costs $454 per year to care for. Honda Odyssey Families on the go need a vehicle they can trust. The Honda Odyssey is that vehicle. This minivan has low repair and maintenance costs when it comes time to care for your vehicle. The minivan is estimated to cost $403 per year to maintain, according to RepairPal Index. Whatever your needs may be in a used vehicle, you can find a car, truck, or SUV that is reliable, trustworthy, and suitable for your budget. To shop for a top-quality used car that is within your price range, be sure to check out what Rath Auto Resources has to offer. Image via RathAuto.com

2018 Ford Escape SE

Top 5 Reasons to Buy a Used SUV

When it's time to replace your old car and you're in the market for an SUV, it's tempting to look at the brand-new models. However, in some ways, it makes sense to look at buying a used SUV instead. Here are five reasons to consider getting an older model. 1. More Bang for Your Buck The new SUV that you'd like can start out with the base model at a price that's within your budget, but when you begin adding the options you want, the cost can quickly escalate. Somewhere, you're going to have to compromise and either look at a cheaper model or go without some of those options that make a road trip more enjoyable. With the wide variety of used vehicles for sale, you could opt for a higher spec model and get all the extras to suit your family's needs. more 2. Lower Depreciation All vehicles depreciate, but when you buy a new vehicle, its value goes down the moment you drive it off the lot. Some cars hold their price better than others, but within three years you can expect your pride and joy to lose up to 50% of its value. Buying a used SUV means that somebody else has taken the biggest hit on the depreciation. 3. Lower Insurance & Registration Your annual car insurance premium is based on a number of factors, but the replacement value of your car is the main consideration taken into account when determining how much you'll pay.  If you wreck your car, a 2018 Toyota 4Runner will be a lot cheaper to replace than a 2020 model which means you pay less insurance. Depending where you live, it may also be cheaper to register your car. Some states, including Arizona, incorporate a vehicle license tax which is reduced by a percentage for each year since it was first registered in the state. 4. Cars Last Longer Cars are built to last longer now and vehicles with 100,000 miles and more on the odometer are still considered to have plenty of life left in them. However, it is always advisable to have your potential purchase thoroughly checked by a qualified mechanic to find if there are any niggling faults or more serious issues, but a two or three-year-old vehicle in average condition should be almost as good as new. 5. Do You Need an SUV? In these days of ecological awareness and with the price of gas, people may ask why you need an SUV. If you've got a large family that regularly needs transporting, the only efficient way to do that and avoid additional unnecessary journeys is with a three-row SUV. Alternatively, you might have an adventurous lifestyle that involves the need to tow boats, ATVs, or trailers. Most SUVs have superior towing capacity. When your adventures take you into the wilderness, you need a vehicle with great off-road capability and the power to get yourself, and others, out of trouble. For your next used SUV, head over to Rath Auto Resources to see how much more car you can get for your money. Image via RathAuto.com

2018 Hyundai Tucson

5 Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car offers many benefits over buying a new vehicle, such as a lower purchase price, less depreciation, and lower insurance to name but a few. However, you need to be prepared when you're shopping for a used car. Here are five important factors to consider. 1. Decide on Your Budget Working out your budget is equally the most basic and most important factor when buying a used car. If you're paying cash, don't be tempted to stretch your budget. If you intend to take out finance, realistically work out the deposit and monthly payments you can afford without difficulty. Don't forget to take the running costs into account. more 2. Create a Car Wish List You might like to own a particular car, but it can make your search easier if you create a list of similar vehicles that fall within your price range. Also, decide on the specifications you need, and those that are desirable. It might come down to choosing between an older but higher spec model or a newer car with fewer extras. Research takes time, but is invaluable. Study the reviews of the cars you're interested in to see what owners say about them and if there any common reliability problems. Look up the “10 best…” lists for the type of vehicle you want. Use Kelley Blue Book as a guide to the real value of used vehicles based on age, mileage, condition, etc. 3. Research the Value of Your Trade-in If you're offsetting the cost of your “new” car with a trade-in, you should know what it's worth. Once again, Kelly Blue Book can help you with that. A salesman has to turn a profit on your trade-in, so he will try to give you the lowest price possible but, if you know its value, you'll know if it's a fair offer. Alternatively, assess whether you'd get more for it with a private sale and if it's worth the additional hassle. 4. Have Your Chosen Car Checked When you've found a car that you're interested in, you need to know if there are any problems with it. Firstly, look up the vehicle history report which will tell you the ownership history, the approximate mileage, if it's ever been involved in a major accident, or if it's stolen. Take it for a test drive for yourself to make sure there are no unusual rattles, squeaks, or problems with the brakes, steering, and suspension. Even if it seems OK to drive, the next step is to have it inspected by a mechanic for any underlying problems. It might cost you around $100, but it could save you a lot of money and hassle in the future. 5. Negotiate You've done your research, so you know the value of the dream car you've found, and what your trade-in's worth, so negotiate with the salesman to get the best deal. Be prepared to walk away if you don't get what you want. Rath Auto Resources of Fort Worth have an awesome inventory of used vehicles and they'll give you the best deal on your trade-in. Image via RathAutoFortSmith.com

2020 Toyota Prius

Used Car Models That Go the Distance

When you buy a used car, you want one that will be worth the money you put into it. iSeeCars conducted a study where they analyzed 13.8 million cars sold in 2018 and calculated how many of those vehicles made it to 200,000 miles. Here are some of our favorites that made the top 10 lists. Toyota Tacoma If you're looking for a truck that's going to last you, the Toyota Tacoma should be near the top of your list. According to the study, around 2.6% of Tacoma trucks reach 200,000 miles. It's no small coincidence that the Tacoma has become one of the most popular trucks in the United States, with the trustworthiness and flexible options it offers to truck drivers. The Tacoma was the second-longest-lasting truck, following the Honda Ridgeline's 3.0%. more Toyota Prius For a commute-ready passenger car, check out the Toyota Prius. According to the study, around 1.7% of Prius cars sold had over 200,000 miles. The Prius has made its mark in the personal car world with the technological advancements that make it stand out from the crowd. The Prius has been known for its amazing mpg ratings for years. Toyota also built them to last, which saves you even more money in the long run. Upgrading your daily travels with a Prius is always a smart move for your comfort and your wallet. Ford Expedition One of the most notable takeaways from the study was that SUVs by far lasted longer than other body types. Tied for second on the list of all cars, SUVs and otherwise, is the Ford Expedition, with 5.0% of them lasting past 200,000 miles. It's a confident performer and it gives you enough power to take on any road with ease. If you're looking for an America vehicle that can handle everything you and your family's busy lives can throw at it, the Ford Expedition can handle the miles. Toyota Sequoia Want to know what the longest-lasting vehicle in all categories was? It's another Toyota, and another SUV; the Sequoia. This three-row SUV is one of the largest options on the market, which makes its durability that much more impressive. With more space to pack who and what you need to make the best out of your adventures and enough power to get there, the Toyota Sequoia is one of the best options if you're looking for longevity in a vehicle. Chevrolet Silverado Truck drivers who want to drive their haulers for miles and miles need to take a look at the Chevrolet Silverado. In the truck segment of the study, it came in fourth place at 1.9% of units reaching 200,000. The Silverado's popularity in the American market is in large part due to this lifespan, as well as the many performance features and useful power it brings to drivers. When you're ready to find your next used car that will last you for years to come, give our team a visit at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Let us help you find the perfect vehicle for your busy lifestyle. Image via Toyota.com

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