Purchasing a used car can be an exciting experience — it’s a big milestone, whether you consider your investment your first ride or if you’re shopping for something better. But after purchasing a used car from a dealer, many new owners confront one question: What to Do After Buying a Used Car from a Dealer? The thing is, your trip isn’t over once you leave the lot. After buying a car, it’s crucial to take a few thoughtful steps in order to ensure that your new ride stays in great condition and is also secure from potential harm.

Looking for the best dealerships near you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 Car Dealer in Jacksonville.

This guide will take you step by step through the important steps every new owner should take. Following their purchase of a used car from a dealer, they help you stay prepared, avoid costly mistakes, and provide peace of mind while on the road.

Review the Vehicle’s Paperwork and Warranty

Why It's Important:

So, what are the things that you do first when it comes to What to Do After Buying a Used Car from Dealer? Well, paperwork is one of them. However, don’t let yourself get too comfortable until everything is squared away and accurate down to the title, registration, and even any warranty information you have. Many dealers provide limited warranties on used cars, so it’s crucial to know what is and isn’t covered.

What to Do:

• Double-check that you have the bill of sale, title, and all required documents.

• Look at the warranty and see what is covered (if anything).

• Check the history report of the vehicle, especially if it was given by a dealer.

Pro Tip: Keep all of the documents in a safe place. They will be immensely useful for reference, resale, or if you have to file a warranty claim.

Have the Car Checked Out by a Mechanic

Why It's Important:

Even if you trust the dealership where you find your used car, it is a good idea to get that car thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. This serves to highlight any possible problems that may not be readily apparent.

What to Do:

• Schedule a complete checkup with an honest mechanic in the first month.

• Request that the mechanic inspect the brakes, tires, transmission, and engine.

• If there’s anything major, ask the dealer about your options — especially if you’re still within the warranty period.

Pro Tip: A checkup may reveal small problems that are cheap and easy to fix, but if left unattended, they grow into much bigger and costly ones.

Change the Oil and Fluids

Why It's Important:

Many used cars could have long-overdue oil and fluids, especially if the dealer didn’t do that before selling. New, clean oil/service fluids are crucial for your vehicle’s peak performance and long life.

What to Do:

• If you haven’t done it already, change the oil and replace the oil filter.

• Inspect and top off other important fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.

• If you’re unsure about the fluid levels, ask your mechanic to do this during the inspection.

Pro Tip: Regular oil changes help keep your engine running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Learn about the Car Features

Why It's Important:

Pre-Owned vehicles usually have many features and technologies that customers may not know about (if you are upgrading to a new model). Knowing about these features can help you to get the most out of your vehicle and keep it in top condition.

What to Do:

• Review the car’s manual to understand how to operate the key features, such as infotainment systems, safety features, and vehicle settings.

• Make sure to test everything: air conditioning, headlights, wipers, and the radio before heading out.

Pro Tip: Get to know the vehicle. Familiarizing yourself with the in’s and out’s of your car will save you in so many aggravating situations down the line.

Update Your Insurance Coverage

Why It's Important:

After you have bought your second-hand car, it is imperative to update your car insurance to the new vehicle. And the right coverage will provide financial protection if you do get into an accident or suffer a loss.

What to Do:

• Contact your insurance provider to update your policy with the make, model, and VIN of your new car.

• Consider purchasing additional coverage, such as roadside assistance or comprehensive coverage, if you feel it’s necessary.

Pro Tip: Some insurance providers offer discounts for safe drivers or for installing safety features like alarms or GPS trackers.

Register Your Car and Get a New Title

Why It's Important:

For you to be able to drive your car in the state, it has to be registered. In many places, the dealer will take care of registering for you, but check to be sure.

What to Do:

• If the dealer has not already done so, go to your DMV in person to finalize registration.

• Be sure that you get your new title and store it in a secure place. It’s proof of ownership.

Pro Tip: Some states allow you to complete the registration process online, which means no need to make a trip to the DMV.

Plan for Routine Maintenance and Repairs

Why It's Important:

When you are the owner of a used car, keeping up with maintenance will enable you to prevent surprise repairs. Staying on top of your vehicle’s service schedule can help it live a longer, more efficient life.

What to Do:

• Establish a routine maintenance schedule according to the car’s manufacturer guidelines (usually every 5,000 - 10,000 miles for oil changes).

• Record your car’s mileage and what services you have done, such as tire rotations and brake checks.

Pro Tip: Consider setting reminders on your phone or calendar to make sure you never miss a scheduled maintenance appointment.

Take Care of the Exterior and Interior

Why It's Important:

It’s no secret that keeping your car looking pristine not only makes it look good but also helps maintain its value. If you continue with regular cleaning and maintenance, you can avoid the dirt, grime, and debris that cause long-term damage to your system.

What to Do:

• Wash the car regularly to remove dirt and salt, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters.

• To protect the paint and stop rust, wax the exterior every few months.

• Use a vacuum to clean inside and out, including the seats, carpets, and dashboard. You may want to add seat covers or floor mats for an extra layer of protection.

Pro Tip: A well-maintained car will look better, last longer, and even have a higher resale value if you decide to sell it in the future.

Keep a Record of All Repairs and Services

Why It's Important:

And keeping a journal of your car’s maintenance and repairs can pay off when selling your car; buyers love that kind of thing! Buyers will more readily trust a car with a fuller service history.

What to Do:

• Save receipts and records for all repairs, oil changes, and other maintenance.

• Keep reports of any inspections you have performed for future reference.

Pro Tip: If you ever decide to sell your car, a complete service history can help you get a higher price.

Want to Buy a Used Car Without All the Hassle? Just Let Merit Auto Group Do The Rest!

When it comes to purchasing a used car from Merit Auto Group, you know that you’re only getting the best in quality and reliability. Here’s why:

• Large Inventory of High-Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles: Whether you’re in the market for a dependable sedan, family-friendly SUV, or rugged pickup truck, we have just what you need here. Every one of our cars is fully checked so that they are perfect!

• No-Pressure Sales Experience: At Merit Autos, we understand that buying a car is a big decision. That’s why our team is here to help, not push. You can take your time, ask questions, and make the decision that’s right for you, without any pressure.

• Easy Financing Options: We have financing to fit everyone's budget, regardless of your credit. We will help you decide which plan is best for your budget, and  then work to get you the car that you want and can afford.

• We Take Care of the Rest: Paperwork to registration, we do it all for you. Our staff does everything possible to make the purchase of your new vehicle smooth.

At Merit Autos, we’re here to make your car-buying journey easy, transparent, and stress-free. Visit us today, and let us take care of the details while you drive away in the perfect used car.

Now that you know what to Do After Buying a Used Car from Dealer, the next step is choosing the right partner for your purchase. Visit Merit Autos today and let us guide you through every step of your car-buying journey. From financing to paperwork and beyond, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying your next vehicle with complete peace of mind.

Buying a used car is a big decision, but it doesn’t stop there. Consider taking these steps afterwards to make it last longer and boost its resale value. By implementing these top tips, you will keep your vehicle working or purchase protected and provide you with years of reliable service.