How to Buy a Used Car in Fort Smith, AR

September 27, 2026 · 3 min read

How to Buy a Used Chevy: A Guide for Fort Smith, AR Shoppers

Are you in the market for a “new to you” vehicle? Are you wondering how to buy a used Car? You’re already making a good decision to check out used Chevys near you in Fort Smith, AR. Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building dependable trucks, SUVs, and cars that hold up well over time. So, if you're drawn to the durability of a Silverado or the practicality of an Equinox, the used market gives you access to quality vehicles at a more accessible price point.

Figure Out What You Need Before You Shop

Before you start browsing inventory, it helps to get clear on what you actually need. Think about how you use your vehicle daily - do you transport equipment, shuttle kids to school, or simply need reliable transportation to and from work?

Chevy's lineup covers a wide range of needs. Trucks like the Silverado and Colorado are good choices if you need towing or payload capability. If you want something more fuel-efficient, a used Equinox or Trailblazer might be the better fit.

Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most important steps in learning how to buy a used car is understanding the full cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. Factor in insurance, registration, fuel, and potential maintenance costs before you commit to a vehicle.

A used Chevy can offer real value. Many models are known for their reliability and have widely available parts, which can help keep maintenance costs reasonable. Setting a firm budget range before you visit a dealership makes the entire process feel much less overwhelming.

Know What to Look for During the Inspection

When you're shopping for a used vehicle, a thorough inspection is essential. Ask to see the vehicle history report, which can reveal previous ownership, accident history, and service records.

Pay attention to the condition of the exterior, the interior, and under the hood. Check for signs of rust, worn upholstery, or anything that seems inconsistent with the mileage on the odometer. If possible, have a trusted mechanic take a look before you finalize your decision.

Take It for a Test Drive

Never skip the test drive. This is your chance to get a real feel for how the vehicle performs. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, and steers. Listen for any unusual sounds and make sure all the technology and controls inside the cabin are working properly.

Chevy vehicles are known for intuitive layouts and solid build quality, so if something feels off during the drive, you should ask questions about the issue.

Work With a Dealership You Can Trust

Choosing the right dealership makes a significant difference in how smooth and transparent the buying process feels. Look for a dealer who is upfront about vehicle history, pricing, and financing options. You should feel comfortable asking questions and never feel rushed into a decision.

At Rath Auto Resources, Fort Smith, AR shoppers can explore a selection of used vehicles and get guidance from a team that prioritizes straightforward, helpful service. Visit Rath Auto Resources to browse current inventory and take your first step toward finding the right used Chevy for your needs.

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2019 Chevrolet Equinox in Stunning Red color

Apr 28, 2026 in Best Used Cars (by Auto Brand)

Discover the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox in Fort Smith, AR

more Performance and Trim Levels Rath Auto Resources offers the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox in Fort Smith, AR. This compact SUV is designed for daily driving and provides several options for different needs. This model features four trim levels, which are the L, LS, LT, and Premier. Interested buyers should contact the dealership to learn more about the current inventory. The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox offers three engine choices. The standard 1.5L 4-cylinder engine produces 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. For more power, the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine provides 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. There is also an available 1.6L turbo-diesel engine that delivers 137 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is available to provide better traction in different road conditions. Interior Technology and Cargo Space The cabin is designed for utility and comfort. It offers 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded flat. Standard models include a 7" touchscreen, but an 8" screen is available on higher trim levels. The Chevrolet Infotainment System supports Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® for smartphone integration. Other available features include a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging for mobile devices. The exterior features vary by trim level. The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox comes with 17" wheels as a standard feature on most trims. However, 18" and 19" wheels are available on the LT and Premier trims. These larger wheels provide a different look and handling feel for the vehicle. Safety Systems The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox includes several safety features. Every model comes with a rearview camera and Teen Driver technology. This technology allows owners to set limits on speed and audio volume for younger drivers. Additional driver assistance systems are available on higher trims. These include Forward Collision Alert and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert are also options. These systems help the driver monitor the area around the vehicle while driving or reversing. Contact Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR to ask about the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The sales team can help you identify which features are included on specific models in stock.

Apr 25, 2025 in Best Used Cars (by Auto Brand)

Looking for Affordable Luxury? Check Out the Top 5 Used Luxury Vehicles on the Market Today

Image via BMW Used luxury vehicles provide exceptional performance and style without stretching your budget. Overwhelmed by your options? Our team here at Rath Auto Resources is here to help kickstart your search with these premium pre-owned selections. more 3 Used Luxury Vehicles That Offer Quality at an Affordable Price 1. 2019 BMW 7 Series The 7 Series is a spacious, stylish large sedan with an athletic 320-horsepower base engine and standard adaptive air suspension. Higher trims have powertrain options that include a potent V12 and a plug-in hybrid. This model features a standard Harman Kardon audio system, a touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation, and desirable comfort features such as power-adjustable heated front seats. You'll also have two front-seat USB ports and Bluetooth. The 7 Series gives you more than 18 cubic feet of trunk space, which is generous for a luxury car. It also incorporates standard driver assistance tech such as pedestrian detection and low-speed automatic emergency braking. The 2019 7 Series lineup earned an above-average predicted reliability rating from JD Power and Associates. 2. 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550 Consider the GLS 550 for a powerful SUV that can easily accommodate up to eight people. The GLS-Class lineup was redesigned for 2017 and includes a new 8-inch infotainment screen with a user-friendly touchpad controller. The high-end 550 trim provides leather upholstery and multi-contoured sport seats with ventilation, heat, and massage. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, a driver drowsiness monitor, LED headlights with automatic high beams, and a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking. The 550 has 16 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear, which expands to nearly 94 cubic feet when you fold down the second and third rows. The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class was ranked 2017's top large luxury SUV by US News and World Report and has an outstanding JD Power Predicted Reliability rating. 3. 2023 Land Rover Defender S The Land Rover Defender is a rare luxury vehicle that can handle truly tough terrain. This two-door model features a turbo-four that gets 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes with a four-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a two-speed transfer case. A standard water depth sensor provides key data if you decide to ford a stream with your Defender. The interior includes dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a 10-speaker Meridian audio system with satellite and HD radio, and a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driver assistance tech in the Defender includes trailer sway control and traffic sign recognition. The base trim seats five, but some models in the 2023 lineup seat up to eight passengers. Used luxury models give you unmatched value and time-tested reliability. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR to browse our impressive inventory and bring home your perfect match today.

Mar 21, 2025 in Best Used Cars (by Auto Brand)

Honda Delivers Efficiency and Longevity: 5 of the Most Reliable Used Honda Models on the Market

Image via Honda Pre-owned Honda models provide outstanding quality, reliability, and value. Start your search with this list of our top five used Honda options. more 5 of the Most Reliable Pre-Owned Honda Models You Can Buy 1. 2017 Civic It's impossible to go wrong with this classic compact car. The 2017 Honda Civic has a spacious interior and offers a wide range of trims, including performance-focused models like the Si. This model year is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. You'll be impressed by the high quality of the cabin and the refined, driver-centered handling, both factors that make this used Civic an exceptional value. It was a Car and Driver Editor's Choice pick in 2017. 2. 2020 Odyssey Another Car and Driver Editor's Choice award winner, the 2020 Odyssey gives you seating for up to eight and flexible cabin and cargo configurations. This minivan is equipped with a potent 280-hp V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. It also earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many models come with modern tech such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 3. 2016 CR-V The CR-V was named one of the best used SUVs of 2016 by Edmunds.com. This compact crossover features ample room for up to five along with loads of cargo space. The 2016 CR-V has a 185-horsepower engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment includes a rearview camera, side curtain airbags, and antilock brakes. The CR-V gives you more than 37 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. 4. 2014 Accord When you drive the Accord, you'll see why it's been a best-selling midsize sedan for generations. This model year is offered as either a sedan or a coupe. Look for a 2014 Accord with the optional V6 to enjoy 278 horsepower with a zero-to-60 time of just over 6 seconds. Every model comes with a rearview camera, and higher trims add active driver assistance tech like lane keep assist. The Accord earned a five-star NHTSA crash-test rating in 2014. 5. 2017 Fit The versatile Fit earned a place on the Car and Driver Editor's Choice list in 2017. It's a subcompact hatchback with competitive interior space and smart features like a flat-folding front passenger seat. The rear seat also folds down to create 53 cubic feet of cargo space. Most models of the 2017 Fit include a standard 7-inch infotainment touchscreen. It also received the highest available five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA. Our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect used Honda car, truck, or SUV for your needs. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR now to test drive your next trustworthy vehicle.