What to Do After Buying a Used Car?

A lot of our customers are curious about how to buy a used car in Lakeland, but after everything is said and done, what are the steps after buying a used car? Once you’ve found the reliable used car that you’ve been looking for, and a great price, then begs the question of how to take care of and properly follow federal and state laws, as well as get the most out of ownership. Check out some important used car buying tips, for after you’ve bought your favorite model. 

Steps After Buying a Used Car – What to Do After Buying a Used Car?

As a car owner, signing the dotted line doesn’t mean you’re legally able to drive quite yet. There are steps after buying a used car that you’ll need to do with the %%di_state%% government to be sure you are following the laws: 

1. Get Insurance: Even before you leave the lot, you’ll want to be sure your vehicle is covered. If you already have an ensurer, you can call them ahead of time to insure your model. You can also get insured at the dealer or sign up online, which is quick and easy nowadays. 
2. Transfer the Title: When you purchase a vehicle at our Kelley Automotive Group dealership, we’ll handle the title transfer for you. However, if you’ve purchased from a private seller in the Bartow area you’ll have to do it for yourself. 
3. Register the Car: When you work with a dealership this is also taken care of, but you’ll have to visit the DMV or Currency Exchange in Winter Haven yourself with the correct paperwork if you buy from a private seller. 
4. Choose a Mechanic You Trust: Finding a mechanic that’s reliable, trustworthy, and competitively priced can be challenging. You can trust our Bartow-area dealership to offer the service you need. If you are looking for suggestions for mechanics close to our other locations, our Kelley Automotive Group team will be happy to point you in the right direction.
5. Schedule Service: If there are any necessary repairs you’ll want to schedule a service appointment, including a quick oil change or a tire rotation. Even if a used car has a great service history, it may still need a few small repairs. 
6. Review the Owner’s Manual: Get familiar with your car and its features by perusing the owner’s manual. Here you can explore you vehicle’s specs as well as details regarding the oil to use, the recommended service schedule, and more of your model. 
7. Check for Recalls: New and used vehicles alike can have a recall issued for one of their mechanical or technological features. As a car owner, always keep an eye out for any recalls that might affect you. 

• Think About Getting an Extended Warranty: Extended warranties are quite variable, so it’s important to research what options are the most sensible for you. Some warranties are only usable at certain auto shops, so be sure you know exactly what you’re paying for. 

Find More Used Car Buying Tips with Kelley Automotive Group! 

After exploring used car buying tips from Kelley Automotive Group, we hope you have a better idea of what goes into purchasing a new or new-to-you vehicle. Visit our team near Bartow or Winter Haven and we’ll assist you with choosing the right model for you, achieving the best rates and terms on a loan, and following the required steps after buying a used car. Contact us online or call us at (844) 885-6132 if you have any questions about our inventory, locations, and more.