Best Used Car Dealerships in St. Louis

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  With the average price of a brand-new vehicle topping $40,000, the used car market can be an appealing alternative for many consumers on a budget. A car is considered used if it's had at least one former owner, regardless of the vehicle's age. Savvy shoppers can take advantage of this to buy a like-new model for thousands of dollars off MSRP. For buyers of classic and collectible models, the pre-owned market also offers the chance to score the car of their dreams.

  
  

  Aside from the cost savings, there are many smart reasons to consider buying used. Cars bought through a certified preowned program are reconditioned and usually come with a warranty and a detailed vehicle history report. Older cars depreciate less, and insurance rates for them are typically lower, too. If you can forgo that new car smell, buying preowned might be the best option for you.

• Do used car lots do trade-ins?

  Many used car lots take trade-ins, and it's an easy way to get rid of a car without the hassle of selling it on your own. Depending on the dealer, however, not every vehicle will be accepted. Your car's trade-in value is largely based on its mileage, so if your car is high-mileage, you'll be offered less.

• How many miles is a lot for a used car?

  In general, many people consider 100,000 miles to be a lot for a used car, even though modern vehicles can run for 200,000 miles or more. When buying used, compare the car's mileage with its age. The average car is driven 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year, so a five-year-old car with over 100,000 miles may have more problems than the odometer suggests.

• How long do dealerships keep used cars on the lot?

  This varies by the dealership, but most keep used cars on the lot for 60 days or fewer. A car that sits on the lot for too long is taking up valuable space, so dealers are motivated to sell as quickly as possible. If a car has been on the lot for over 90 days, many dealers are usually willing to reduce the price.

• What are some things to check when buying a used car?

  Even if a car comes with a warranty, it's important to inspect the vehicle inside and out before you purchase it. A few things to check for include:
  

  • Scratches, dents, and other body damage
  • Seat tears, odors, and cushion condition
  • Operational windows and doors
  • Air conditioner and heater
  • Tire tread
  • Interior and exterior lights
  • Belts, fluids, and other parts under the hood

• What happens to used cars at a dealership that don’t sell?

  Cars that sit on the lot for too long, even after multiple price drops, are usually sold to auction houses. The auction house then sells the vehicle to the highest bidder in “as-is” condition. Cars in poor condition might instead be sold to scrap yards.

• Is there a lemon law for used cars?

  Lemon laws are designed to protect buyers if a seller misrepresents the title, has tampered with the odometer, or fails to accurately disclose the car's history. All 50 states have a lemon law for brand-new cars. The only states that have a lemon law for used cars are New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Hawaii.