Used Off-Road Vehicles for Texas Drivers

You’ve likely heard that used cars are harder to buy, and if you’re currently shopping for a used off-road vehicle, you’re dealing with it. The price of new and used cars has risen dramatically over the past 18 months. And if that isn’t bad enough, it’s a lot harder to find the car you want.

The reason? COVID-19. The global pandemic shut down production lines and prompted computer chip makers to pivot from auto chips to making parts for personal computers, phones, and tablets. With a much smaller supply and a higher demand, finding a car is a tough grind for budget-conscious buyers.

If your search for your next car has hit some potholes, here are some tips for navigating the market for used cars in Texas.

Get Out of the Big City

Nearly every auto dealership keeps a near real-time list of their selection of vehicles. There are many reasons to use the power of the World Wide Web to expand your used car search outside of large urban areas.

• You won’t be paying the Big City markup due to higher property and payroll costs.
• Many dealerships offer “shop from home” options, so you won’t have to drive all over Texas to find a great deal on a used car.
• Having trouble finding the car you want? Most dealerships are eager to leverage their network to hunt down the vehicle for you. Send them your specs and let them do the legwork.

Don’t Fear those Extra Zeros on the Odometer

Advances in technology have added years—and thousands of miles—to the longevity of vehicles. Add to that manufacturer maintenance incentives, and today’s cars can go well over 100,000 miles.

And with vehicle history reports available from places like Carfax and AutoCheck, buying used cars no longer feels like playing Russian Roulette with your hard-earned dollars.

Be Clear About What You Need

Shopping for a used SUV? You’re not alone. SUVs remain among the most popular used cars in Texas. So, if you’re having difficulty finding one that fits your budget, it might be wise to step back and consider another body style that fits your needs.

For instance, many hatchbacks and mid-size sedans offer cargo space that’s comparable to many compact crossover SUVs. With the unforgiving Texas terrain, you may also be looking for a used off-road truck or SUV. Or, if you’re looking for a three-row SUV to accommodate your family, you may have better luck getting a budget-friendly deal on a minivan.

Give Your Current Ride a Spa Day

Take advantage of rising used car prices and command top dollar for your trade-in. There are several online tools available to help you get an idea of what your car is worth. It may also be worth the investment to have a professional detail your vehicle. Appraisers are human: even the pros are more likely to give your car a higher value if they’re not confronted with a layer of dirt and coffee stains in the upholstery.

Plan Your Winning Strategy

In today’s highly competitive market, shopping for used cars in Texas may feel like an Olympic event. But with the right strategy, you’ll have an easier time finding the vehicle you need without blowing your budget.