Buying from a Dealer vs. Private Seller

When searching for a used Mitsubishi in the Cleveland area, you have two main options: purchasing from a car dealer vs. a private seller. Many Northfield buyers opt for private sales, believing they’ll snag a better deal, but that’s not always true. While you can find excellent prices privately, buying from a dealership often saves you time, reduces stress, and can even be more cost-effective. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of buying from a dealer vs. a private seller with the team at North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford below.

Buying from a Dealership: Pros & Cons 

Comparing the costs and benefits of partnering with a car dealer vs. a private seller in the greater Warrensville Heights region? As mentioned above, dealerships like North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford in Bedford come with their distinctive perks and drawbacks when it comes to vehicle financing, such as:

Pros: 

• Trade-Ins: Have a car you’d like to sell? When you buy from a dealership, you can get a value estimate on your current vehicle, trade it in, and then put your earnings toward the price of the car you want to buy. 
• Certified Pre-Owned Inventory: Unlike private sellers, you can find certified pre-owned models at dealerships. Certified Pre-Owned Mitsubishi vehicles are pre-owned but offer warranty coverage, roadside assistance, special CPO financing, and more. 
• Service & Parts Centers: At North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford, you can keep your used car in great condition for years to come, thanks to our cutting-edge service and parts centers. 
• Competitive Prices/Wide Selection: Dealerships price their used vehicles according to market values, and those prices can also be negotiated. You can also browse a wide selection of different types of used cars at a dealer, like North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford. 

Cons: 

• Financing: Most car shoppers who purchase cars from dealers finance their purchases, and some look at this fact as a negative aspect of buying from dealerships. While the most cost-effective way to buy a car is to pay in cash, that’s not always possible for car buyers. That’s where financing comes in. 

Buying from a Private Seller: Pros & Cons 

Are you still on the fence about buying from a dealer vs. a private seller? Some shoppers choose to opt for private financing. Although there are some draws to this type of investment, buyers should nevertheless be warned of the potential issues:

Pros:

• Owner’s Perspective: Private sellers have first-hand knowledge of a car’s smallest imperfections, so assuming they’re 100% honest with you, they can give you a good idea of what to expect from the vehicle. 
• Niche Market: For those in pursuit of a particular make and model, engaging with a private seller may facilitate a more successful search for your desired vehicle. Dealerships often lack the inventory of rare or historically significant automobiles.

Cons:

• Beware of No Coverage/Protection: Purchasing a vehicle from a private seller means you forfeit any warranty protection if the car fails. If it breaks down on the same day, you are entirely liable for the repair costs. In contrast, car dealerships typically provide some warranty coverage on used cars, ensuring you’re protected against unexpected issues after your purchase.
• Iffy-at-Best Service History: Also, there may be little to no record of repairs and maintenance performed on the car, which means it could’ve been years since its last tune-up. 

Shop for a Used Mitsubishi at North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford

When comparing the pros and cons of siding with a car dealer vs. a private seller, it’s obvious that the former is the more attractive choice. Discover an impressive array of affordable used cars at North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford—we’re all set for your test drive adventure. Should you have any inquiries about our diverse inventory or special offers on pre-owned vehicles, feel free to reach out to us online or give us a call at 440-745-7682