How to Buy a Used Car: A Step-by-Step Guide for Iowa Shoppers

Buying a used car can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to sign the paperwork, this guide will walk you through what to look for in a used vehicle and how to make the buying process simple at Brad Deery Motors in Maquoketa, IA.

What should you look for first in a used car?

Start by focusing on the basics:

• Mileage & Condition – Lower miles are great, but maintenance history is just as important.
• Accident & Service Records – Ask for a vehicle history report. We are a CarFax For Life Dealer and will happily provide a CarFax history report for any of our vehicles.
• Interior & Exterior Wear – Look for signs of water damage, rust, or unusual wear.
• Ownership & Title Status – The title is not salvaged (though some buyers do prefer salvage vehicles for the right price and purpose).

👉 Check out our rotating list of hand-picked Nic’s Picks Used Vehicle Specials for reliable options selected by our team.

Where can you find affordable used cars in Iowa?

If you’re shopping on a budget, start with our Used Cars Under $15K. These vehicles are priced to move quickly and are a great option if you’re working with a limited budget.

What does “Certified Pre-Owned” mean?

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars are used vehicles that pass rigorous factory-backed inspections and come with extended warranties. They’re a great middle ground between brand-new and traditional used vehicles.

• Factory Certified Used Vehicles – Backed by Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM.
• Deery Certified Vehicles – Our in-house certification program adds peace of mind with thorough inspections and 3-month/3,000 mile powertrain coverage.

Are Buyback vehicles a smart choice?

Yes — for many shoppers, buybacks can be an excellent alternative. A buyback simply means the manufacturer repurchased the vehicle in the past. At Brad Deery Motors, Buyback Inventory comes with additional warranty protection, and you can often get a newer vehicle with more features and lower miles for the same price as an older, clean-title vehicle with fewer options.

For value-minded shoppers, buybacks are worth a close look.

How do you figure out your budget for a used car?

The smartest step before shopping is to understand your buying power. At Brad Deery Motors, you can quickly estimate what you can afford with our Buying Power tool.

Once you know your range, our Finance Center can help you with competitive rates, flexible terms, and options for all credit types.

Should you protect your used car investment?

Absolutely. Even the best-kept vehicles benefit from protection plans that save you money in the long run. Explore our Protect Your Investment packages for extended warranties, GAP coverage, paint & fabric protection, and more.

Looking for something specific?

At Brad Deery Motors, you’re not limited to just cars under $15K or certified options — we carry a wide variety of used vehicles to fit your needs:

• Used Trucks for Sale – Perfect for towing, hauling, and work.
• Used SUVs for Sale – Family-friendly with extra space and versatility.
• Used Vans for Sale – Great for large families or business needs.
• Used Cars for Sale – From fuel-efficient commuters to sporty sedans.

How can you make the process stress-free?

1. Do your homework – Read reviews, compare trims, and check features.
2. Test drive – Always see how the car feels on the road.
3. Get pre-approved – Use our Finance Center to speed up the process.
4. Shop certified or buyback – Explore Factory Certified, Deery Certified, and Buyback Inventory for maximum value and confidence.

Ready to start shopping?

Whether you’re after an affordable daily driver under $15K, a Nic’s Picks special, or a Certified, Buyback, truck, SUV, van, or car — Brad Deery Motors has options for every lifestyle and budget. Visit us in Maquoketa, browse our current used specials, or get started online today.

Tags: Car buying tips, Quad Cities Car Buyers
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