Thinking about buying a pre-owned MINI car in Orlando, FL? You may have some questions about the process. Here are some buying tips that may come in handy when searching for a pre-owned MINI vehicle. 

1. Look at the History Report 

Just examining a car and taking a short test drive is a good start, but it doesn’t tell you everything. For a more complete picture, look at a vehicle’s history report. This may provide some details you would otherwise not be privy to.

The report will reveal, for example, whether a car has been in any collisions and the type of repair work done. All Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) MINI cars come with a history report. 

2. Set a Budget 

Setting a budget is important whether you’re buying a new or pre-owned car. However, the good news is that with the latter, you may have a little more leeway.

For example, you may be able to aim for a premium trim that’s out of your budget in a new model. Long-term expenses like insurance rates and yearly registration fees also tend to be lower. Compare the cost-savings with a new car purchase of the same model. 

3. Consider the Depreciation Rate 

Some models retain their value better than others. According to the automotive site iSeeCars, the MINI Countryman came in at number two in the compact SUV segment of cars that depreciate the least over a five-year period. The model depreciated at a rate of 39.1 percent, when the average depreciation rate in the segment is 46 percent. Consider how well specific models hold onto their value when selecting a pre-owned automobile. 

Visit Orlando MINI and see our selection of CPO and non-CPO models. A pre-owned vehicle is an excellent way to acquire your desired car while sticking to a tight budget.