While they may be hard to find, used hybrid cars offer the best of both worlds to both your wallet and the environment; known to be expensive when new and usually considered to be out of fiscal reach for the majority of families, used hybrid cars are a money saver all the way around.
Begin your quest for used hybrid cars by being clear what kind of vehicle you require and what you are willing to settle for.
For example, if you have a larger family and need an SUV, then a BMW X6 might be something you dream of, but considering the price tag and the failure to be on the market in the used version anytime soon, you might go on the lookout for a Toyota Highlander. For sale in the United States since late 2001, this SUV came out in the hybrid form in 2005 and some used models are now making it onto car lots.
Locate the best used hybrid cars.
If you have time and do not need to have a vehicle right away, contact a few car dealerships that specialize in the makes and models you are considering. Set up a contact with a sales person and let them know what you are looking for and that you would appreciate a call as soon as such a used hybrid car is for sale. Check local automotive ads and spread the word to your friends and colleagues as well. Word of mouth is sometimes the best way of finding a great deal before it gets advertised and you find yourself in competition with other buyers.
Know what to look for.
Used hybrid cars for sale at car dealerships will most often come with a warranty attached, but if you consider making the purchase from a private party, the buyer must beware! Sales are final and materials used in hybrid cars have been known to fail more quickly than in regular gas guzzlers and it is wise to treat each car with suspicion and look for problems.
A private seller should not hesitate in giving you permission to bring a mechanic along to check out the hybrid energy sources; even the best used hybrid cars are notorious for showing some problems with the battery pack, but if the pack is waning and you find yourself in the position of having to replace it, the cost may be prohibitive! While this could explain the below market value pricing the seller put on the hybrid, it may be more expensive in the end than you bargained for.
Surf the ‘Net and check around.
There will be times when local inventories seem to have dried up. While purchasing a used hybrid car over the Internet is a bit of a long shot, you might find that some of the best hybrid cars are just 20 minutes away in the next county. Hybrid car information may be found at the Your Hybrid website, and even if you do not use it to make a purchase, a lot of the information contained on such sites will alert you toward changing trends, dropping prices, problems that some models may evidence, and also forewarn you about upcoming new models that might cause a sudden spike in the availability of used hybrid vehicles in your area.
Relying on the Kelley Blue Book site gives you up to date information with respect to which hybrid car offers the best pre-owned quality, where to find/purchase one, as well as details on pricing, availability, technical specs and other information important for potential buyers to know.
