So it’s time to buy your first, or upgrade to a new 4X4. It can be a bit of an unknown so I’ve put together a list of your options and what to expect…

Private Sale: Aside from a risky bargain you might pick up at auction, a private sale is your best bet for the cheapest price. You need to remember that a private seller has no real reputation to protect, and not a great deal of governance on what they do. It’s recommended that you choose this option if you know a little bit about 4X4’s or can take someone who does. Remember that even if the seller seems to be a nice person; don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions you would ask a dealer. Your there to make a big purchase so don’t take short cuts. Be sure to do you due diligence on the vehicle, including finance checks etc.

Franchised dealers: There are four different kinds of dealers and franchise dealers are the most trustworthy. Not only are they representing their business they are also representing the franchise so they are not likely to put that at risk. You going to find newer, high quality cars here, but unfortunately as the dealer takes their cut, the franchise takes their cut, you’re going to pay a higher price. If you’re looking for peace of mind, a franchise dealer should be your first stop.

Independent dealers: Independent dealers over the years have gained a poor reputation. For the most part these independent dealers don’t deserve the bad rap they’ve got and a worth a look. In the competitive car market independent dealers need to work hard for your business and you might find you can negotiate a little hard than with the franchise guys. There are still quality cars to be found at good prices. Make sure you don’t get caught in the sales pitch, take your time to make your decision and shop around.

Wholesale dealers: Wholesale dealers are the guys who act as the intermediate between the retail dealers. They buy trade-in’s or pick up stock at wholesale auctions. They then on-sell the cars to retailers, most of the time to independants. You might not get a shot at a wholesaler, but a friend might have a friend…. The most important thing is these guys don’t have time to waste. The usually work on a no mess no fuss basis with the retail dealers so don’t expect any sort of service. It you know exactly what you want and a wholesaler has it, you might consider it, otherwise (unless the wholesaler is a direct friend) I’d steer clear.

Car supermarkets: The big car supermarkets work on one theory. Sell for less and sell often. Out of the dealers, you’ll probably find your cheapest cars here, but there all about moving cars through so they might be a little pushier that you’d like. Stand your ground and don’t rush into a decision you’ll regret. Perhaps look at this option if you looking for a unique or older car and price are a big consideration.

Auctions: There a two kinds of auctions, ones where you are present at the action and the car is presented to you, or sites like eBay where the auction is online. Auctions are by far the best places to find a bargain, but it’s not without risk. You’re not going to have the access to the car that you need to make an informed decision and time is not on your side. I’ve hear many stories of massive savings at auction but just as many horror stories, so unless you really know what your looking at, or have the cash to take a risk, you might want to think twice about this – no matter what stories you hear.

How do you find the cars?

• Jump on eBay and search for what you want
• Buy your local paper and check through the classifieds
• Go to Google and search for ‘4X4 Dealers in ….’
• Go to your local magazine store and look for automotive classifieds
• Use you white pages business directory and look for dealers or local 4X4 clubs that will be proud to bring another 4X4 enthusiast into the fray
• Talk to other owners of 4X4’s and see where they bought their chariot from

Good luck and I hope you find the 4X4 of your dreams!

8 Responses to “Where Can I Buy A Used 4×4?”

• August 26th, 2008 Chris Moran:

  Nice writing style. Looking forward to reading more from you.

  Chris Moran

• August 26th, 2008 Where Can I Buy A Used 4×4?:

  [...] Original post by Shayne [...]

• August 26th, 2008 Peter James:

  Thanks for the Tips. I’m about to start looking for my daughters first car… Should be interesting

• August 26th, 2008 Mark:

  I once bought a $20K car off ebay without seeing it. It was a risky thing to do, but it turned out fine. I can see how it could all go wrong though

• August 26th, 2008 Monster4X4:

  How do you get in touch with these wholesalers?

• August 26th, 2008 Shayne:

  You don’t find wholesalers, you just meet them through friends and associates

• August 26th, 2008 Where Can I Buy A Used 4×4? : businessuu:

  [...] Original post by Shayne [...]

• August 26th, 2008 Tom Stanley:

  I was on Yahoo and found your blog. Read a few of your other posts. Good work. I am looking forward to reading more from you in the future.

  Tom Stanley

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