Sometimes buying a used car is a better option than getting a brand new one. For one, it is a way cheaper option. But after some time of owning it, you want to get one of the packages or options it used to have as a new car. Now you wonder if this is still possible. We have consulted automotive experts on this concern, and here is what they have to say.
Yes and no. Though it is unlikely that a car dealership will install packages and options for a used vehicle, it is still possible depending on the model and manufacturer. The best option if you want to have add-ons is buying from a third-party seller or buying aftermarket parts.
Vehicles that are older will have a different chassis and parts for them. The add-on parts for the older models may already be phased out, or newer ones won't fit since they have different designs. For more information about used vehicles, keep reading below.
Vehicle Packages And Options For Used Cars
When looking to upgrade or update your used vehicle with packages and options previously available to it, you may have a hard time doing so. This is because these add-ons are usually installed on a vehicle when purchasing it brand new.
Adding packages and options onto a vehicle after it's been bought is a pretty rare occurrence. That's why it's best to have a good look at the used car that you are about to buy, to confirm that the vehicle's spec is up to your liking.
One thing you can do is call a dealer that sells the same car models as your used vehicle, and ask them if they do offer that service. If you have an older model, you will most likely not be able to have a dealership install these add-ons.
But if your vehicle is somewhat newer and the vehicle model that you have hasn't changed chassis or design, you may have a chance of getting the optional package. One way of making your vehicle look newer is by doing a facelift.
The only downside of a facelift is you're only updating or upgrading the exterior of the vehicle. Parts like the rear and front bumper, side skirts, fenders, hood, and trunk may get replaced to install the updated look of a car's model.
For used cars, the best way to get the additional add-ons offered by your vehicle model is by getting it from a third-party seller or shop. Some automotive shops may get their hands on a more premium add-on that you can purchase and have a mechanic or auto body shop install it for you.
Since there are really not that many packages offered for used cars, your best option is getting aftermarket or OEM parts. Here are some of the components of the vehicle that will most likely have a replacement or upgrade parts on the ready:
- Body Kits (Fenders, Side Skirts, Bumpers, Hood, Trunk)
- Aftermarket or Different Trim Wheels
- Interior Upgrade (Lights, Stitching, Seats, Infotainment)
- Engine Upgrade (Air Intake, Turbo, Header, Exhaust)
This method will be way cheaper, just be sure that the parts you are getting are from the same generation as your used vehicle. This is very important so that no conversions are needed to have the add-ons installed.
Also, make sure that any aftermarket parts you put on your vehicle pass the laws of your state. This is essential to prevent getting pulled over or decreasing the safety of your car.
What To Look Out For When Purchasing A Used Vehicle
Buying a used vehicle can be a little stressful because you will wonder if the car is reliable or if you will get a good deal. Knowing the important things to look for can save you the trouble of fixing and repairing the vehicle you just bought
Here are some of the things you should look out for when planning to buy a used vehicle:
Vehicle History
When buying a vehicle, its history is also as important as its performance, you wouldn't want to purchase a stolen or wrecked car that was repaired. Having a clean record and registration is a must and your state laws must always be followed.
Never get a vehicle that was flooded or damaged in any major or minor accidents. A clean car will definitely save you a lot of trouble and stress.
Engine Condition
When it comes to checking the engine, you can try to listen or smell for anything wrong. Any knocking and grinding sound is bad, also try to smell for anything burning. If you do smell anything burning this may be caused by leaking oil.
When driving the vehicle, check that every time you step on the accelerator, the car does not jerk or hesitate. The best way to check a vehicle is when it's completely cold since a warmed-up vehicle will typically start right up.
If a vehicle is performing badly it's best to stay away from it, repairing or replacing the engine won't be worth your time and money. One sign that the vehicle has engine problems is if the check engine light is on on the vehicle's dash.
Tire Condition
Look at the vehicle's tire and wheel condition, you would not want to spend extra for a set of new tires or wheels. When inspecting the car's tires, check for tread wear, rips, and warping.
A bad tire can cause your vehicle to lose needed traction and even make your car shake. When checking the vehicle's wheels, ensure that it does not have any scratches, dents, or cracks. This is essential to check since the weight of the vehicle will be placed on them.
Mileage
A vehicle's mileage is one of the most important things to look out for when buying a car. A high mileage car may come with mechanical problems or may be more prone to parts breaking.
The average mileage you want in a used vehicle is below 100,000 miles. Anything beyond 100,000 miles will not be running in its optimal conditions. The sweet spot for a used car is around 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
Interior
When inspecting the interior, there are a few things you'll need to scrutinize and guarantee that it works or isn't worn out. The interior is also one of the essential things to inspect since this is where you'll spend most of your time when driving.
First, you should check if all the vehicle's electronics are working, such as the air conditioning, lights, gauges, infotainment, charging ports, and power windows/mirrors/doors. Having these fixed or replaced can be costly, and this may negatively affect your driving experience.
Secondly, you should inspect the vehicle's upholstery. You should double-check that the seats are not worn or broken, no cracks on the dashboard or door panels and the car's carpet is in one piece. Remember to always take your time when checking the interior since there is a lot to look at.
Paint
The vehicle paint is one of the easiest to inspect. Take a look around the vehicle and look for paint chips, color shade, fading, cracks, and bubbling.
Though a vehicle with worn or damaged paint won't affect its driving performance, it can cause rust to set in much faster. Also repainting a vehicle is expensive. For newer models, this won't really be a problem but you still need to look out for it.
Rust
Rust can be a deal-breaker since it may be a sign of neglect or old age. Rust can create holes in your vehicle for water or pests to get in, and this is also hard to repair.
When a used vehicle you're looking at has excessive rust, it's best to find another since it will not be worth fixing this. Rust can also cause the vehicle's structural integrity to weaken since it eats away metal.
When inspecting the vehicle, remember to also check underneath the car, a vehicle may look fine but have a lot of rusted parts underneath. Places that are near to the ocean have a higher tendency of having rusted cars because of the salt.
Frame
Make sure that the frame of the vehicle is straight, you could stand at either end of the vehicle, and inspect the side if there are any dents or deformation with the body. Though small dents don't affect the car and can be hardly seen, it's still better to have a straight and fresh vehicle.
Also, try to feel around the vehicle to see that it does not have body repairs. To do this feel around the metal parts of the car, and if you find a stop that does not feel right, try knocking on it.
Typically a repaired part of the body of the car will have a different sound from the part that isn't repaired. If the used car you have has any hidden repairs, it's best to stay away from it and find a new one.
In Closing
You can still get packages and options for a used vehicle, but most of these may come from after-market or third-party auto stores especially if you have an older vehicle. After-market parts will be your best choice since they are a cheaper and more abundant option.
When looking for a used vehicle, see to it that you inspect and test the vehicle to ensure everything is in order. Also, look into whether the title of the vehicle is clean to avoid any problems.
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