Theft: Protect Your Buy Here Pay Here Car

How to Protect Your Buy Here Pay Here Car From Theft

You rely on your car, so you have to keep it safe from theft. You probably paid quite a bit of your hard-earned money for your vehicle, so to have it be stolen is a major problem.

Let's look at ways you can help keep your car safe and sound, right where you’ve parked it.

Upgrade Your Buy Here Pay Here Car's Security

Adding an aftermarket security system can be a great way to deter thieves. These systems can be as basic as touch-sensitive alarms or as high-tech GPS trackers with kill switches.

Even just the visible signs of a security system can make thieves think twice.

Keep Up With Safety Recalls

Some car brands, like certain Hyundai and Kia models, have recalls due to security flaws. If you bought one of these makes from buy here pay here car lots in Indiana or elsewhere, check if your car is affected. You can even ask at the buy here pay here car lot where you bought your car.

Use your vehicle identification number (VIN) to check the manufacturer's website or call them. If there's a recall, get it fixed right away. It’s free, and it can help protect your car against theft.

The Hidden Power Of VIN Etching

Consider getting your VIN etched into your car's windows. This simple step can deter thieves who'd need to replace all the glass to disguise the car. It also helps in recovering your vehicle if it's stolen and might even lower your insurance premiums. Many police departments or community groups offer VIN etching for free or at a low cost.

Harnessing Technology For Better Protection

Modern tech offers some good ways to beef up your car's security beyond the basics.

1. Think about installing a dashcam that records even when your car is parked and turned off.

2. Look into smart key fobs that prevent signal cloning.

3. Purchase an app subscription that alerts you if your car moves without your permission.

4. Install a heavy-duty steering wheel lock or pedal lock, available for purchase at most car parts stores.

5. Store your keys in a faraday box or bag when not in use to protect against signal cloning devices. These devices read the signal from your key fob and trick your car into unlocking and, if you have a push-button ignition, starting.

Although some of these options might cost a bit upfront, they can offer great long-term security for your buy here pay here vehicle.

Be Smart About Where You Park Your Buy Here Pay Here Car

Where and how you park your car can significantly impact its security. Whenever possible, choose well-lit areas, especially at night. Busy parking lots or streets with lots of foot traffic are generally safer.

If you have a garage, use it – indoor parking is always a safer bet. When parking on a slope, turn your wheels toward the curb to make towing more difficult. Being mindful of your parking choices because they can go a long way in keeping your car safe from theft.

Maintenance: More Than Just Performance

Keeping your car in good shape isn't just about how it runs. It can also help prevent theft. Regular maintenance ensures all your locks and security features are working right. It keeps your car reliable, reducing the chances of breaking down in sketchy areas. Plus, keeping up your car's value makes comprehensive insurance more worthwhile. Regular visits to trusted mechanics mean more eyes looking out for your car's well-being.

Why You Shouldn't Skimp On Insuring Your Buy Here Pay Here Car

It might be tempting to go for the bare minimum-required insurance coverage in your state, but comprehensive insurance is a smart move to protect your buy here pay here car. This type of insurance typically covers theft, giving you a financial safety net if the worst happens. It will also pay to repair your car if it’s recovered with damage or was involved in a collision, no matter who was at fault.

When you're shopping for insurance, compare quotes from different providers and ask about discounts for anti-theft devices. You might even save by bundling your car insurance with other policies, like your renter’s insurance, to get a discount.

Easy Habits That Make a Big Difference

Keep yourself informed about car theft trends in your area. Local police often share updates on which car models are being targeted, common theft methods, and high-risk areas or times.

Sometimes, the simplest methods work wonders in preventing car theft. Follow these tips for even more safety and security.

1. Make it a habit to always lock your doors, even in areas that seem safe.

2. Never leave your car running unattended, not even for a quick dash into a store.

3. Keep valuables out of sight to avoid tempting opportunistic thieves. Better still, don’t keep anything in your car, not even your phone charger.

Protecting your buy here pay here car from theft is an ongoing process. By mixing physical deterrents, tech solutions, community involvement, and smart habits, you can seriously cut down the risk of your car being stolen.

The time and effort you put into securing your car are way less costly than dealing with theft or having to replace your stolen ride at a buy here pay here car lot.

The Benefits of Purchasing a Buy Here Pay Here Car For Indiana College Students

Roll the windows down, turn on your favorite jams, and let the freedom wash over you: you’re headed to college!

Now that you’re on your own, you need a reliable vehicle to get you to and from class, to social activities, and, of course, back home to do your laundry.

A buy here pay here car can get you wherever you need to go and affording one can be easier than other car-buying options. Whether you’re headed to Ball State, Goshen, Purdue, Bloomington, or South Bend, your new-to-you car will get you there, and Quick Auto, with seven buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, can help you achieve it.

What Is a Buy Here Pay Here Car Dealership?

A buy here pay here dealership sells used cars and provides financing all under one roof. Although they check credit scores, they don’t use that information to determine whether you can get a car loan. Instead, they look at your monthly income to calculate the car payment you can afford.

At one of these car lots, you can get approved for financing, choose a used car, and make your payments, all at the same address. So why is a buy here pay here car dealership a good choice for many college students? Keep reading to find out.

You Don’t Need Established Credit to Purchase a Buy Here Pay Here Car

To qualify for a traditional used car loan, you’ll need about a 675 credit score. Some lenders accept slightly lower scores.

However, if you’re just starting out in your adult life, you likely haven’t built credit in your name yet. To build credit, you basically need to take out debt and pay it back on time.

If you have no credit, your credit score likely isn’t high enough to qualify for a loan from a bank or credit union without the help of a cosigner, someone who says they are willing to take on the responsibility of the loan. Usually a cosigner is a parent or grandparent, but not everyone has the luxury of having a willing cosigner.

Buy here pay here car dealerships check your credit score, but they don’t use it to determine whether they’ll give you a used car loan. So if you don’t have credit, it’s no problem here.

You Make Small Weekly Payments Rather Than One Larger Payment

If you were to get financing for a used car from a traditional lender, you are required to make a lump-sum monthly payment. For a college kid working and juggling class, you know the amount of money you have in your bank account can vary, depending on the other bills you have to pay or supplies you need to buy.

A buy here pay here car dealership breaks your one monthly payment into smaller weekly payments, so you don’t take a big chunk out of your money all at once. This can help you budget the rest of your expenses.

Let’s look at an example. Let’s say you get paid $1,000 on the first and 15th day of the month. But also on the first, your rent is due. Your electric bill is due on the 15th, and your car insurance is due on the 20th. Finally, your car payment with a traditional loan is due on the 10th. In this scenario, you’ll pay your two biggest bills using your first paycheck of every month, and smaller ones with the second. This could empty your wallet in one week.

But if you choose a buy here pay here used car instead, you’ll pay a much smaller car payment each week. This spreads that expense over the month, so you have money left from each paycheck for everything else you need.

It Only Takes About an Hour to Purchase a Buy Here Pay Here Used Car

College students are some of the busiest people on earth! You go to class, you work, you socialize, you do your homework, you keep in touch with your family, and you take care of your living space.

If you choose to buy a car the traditional way with a loan from a bank or credit union, you can expect to be at the car dealership for hours - sometimes even making a second trip later in the week to complete your purchase.

At a buy here pay here car dealership, the entire process can be completed in as little as an hour. Yes, you’ll have time to attend your morning class, grab lunch, buy a car, and get to your afternoon lab!

You Already Have The Documents You Need to Apply For Financing

To apply for a loan through a bank or a credit union, you have to prove every little thing about your life. You need a bunch of documents that you don’t always have access to. The application also takes a long time to fill out.

In-housing financing paperwork is fast - only a handful of questions to answer. Take a look at a loan application for our buy here pay here car dealership so you can see what we mean.

The only documents you need to bring to apply are those you probably already have handy on your desk or in your wallet:

?     A government-issued photo ID

?     Proof of how much money you make at work, such as recent paystubs

?     A utility bill or lease agreement in your name, that lists the address where you live

Head to College In a Ride You’re Proud to Call Your Own

You don’t need to hope your parents give you a car or bum rides from classmates any longer. Instead, you can shop at one of our seven buy here pay here car lots in Indiana and get behind the wheel of your very own reliable used car.

Find us in:

?     Hammond, home of Purdue University Northwest

?     Elkhart, home of Bethel College - Elkhart Campus

?     Portage, near Valparaiso University

?     South Bend, home of Indiana University South Bend and University of Notre Dame

?     La Porte, located near Ivy Tech Community College

?     Highland, near Indiana University Northwest and Chicago State University

?     Mishawaka, home of Bethel University

Contact the Quick Auto location nearest you today to buy a used car you can afford.

Top 5 Buy Here Pay Here Car Features

Find These Must-Haves In Cars For Sale At Our Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships in Indiana

When you're shopping for a car at buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, there are certain features that can really put the icing on the cake and make you fall in love with a new-to-you ride.

Buy here pay here used cars can come with many of the bells and whistles of brand-new models while offering much better value, if you know what to look for. Keep reading to learn more about five features to seek out when buying from a buy here pay here car dealership like Quick Auto.

1. Low Mileage

Before you worry about USB ports and power lift-gates, one of the most important things to check is the odometer reading. The lower the mileage, the less wear and tear the vehicle has likely experienced. Ideally, look for cars with less than 100,000 miles, but many makes and models will last over 200,000 with the right care. At our Indiana buy here pay here lots, you can find quality vehicles with low mileage.

Keep in mind, the average American drives around 14,200 miles per year. So a five-year-old car with 50,000 miles would be considered relatively low mileage, whereas one with over 100,000 miles for that age is high. Low mileage often means the car has a lot more life left in it, but it also comes down to how the car was maintained and driven.

2. Essential Power Features

Having power windows and locks makes driving much more convenient. No more cranking down windows by hand or fumbling with keys just to get into your vehicle.

Power seats let you adjust to the perfect position with the touch of a button, and remote start lets you warm up your car or cool it down before getting in.

For drivers in Indiana's varying climate, heated seats and a heated steering wheel can be a real lifesaver during the colder months. Consider these features for added comfort and convenience.

Ask about these amenities when shopping at our buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, near Indiana and Michigan.

3. Smartphone Connectivity

These days, it's useful to have technology that syncs with your smartphone for music, navigation, calls, and more. Look for buy here pay here used cars with Bluetooth capability at minimum. This lets you wirelessly connect your phone to the car's audio system.

Some more advanced models may have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which let you use certain phone apps right on the vehicle's infotainment screen. Most models from the last five to eight years have this feature.

Smartphone integration is becoming increasingly important for safety. Look for cars that offer hands-free calling and texting capabilities, as well as voice-activated controls for navigation and music.

4. Backup Camera

Rearview backup cameras help tremendously with visibility, especially when parallel parking or backing out of tight spaces. They offer an extra set of eyes, allowing you to see obstacles or pedestrians that might be out of your line of sight.

Luckily, many buy here pay here used cars manufactured before 2018 were already equipped with backup cameras, as they started appearing in the early 2000s. When evaluating cars at Indiana buy here pay here lots, be sure to test that the backup camera screen provides a clear picture, even in low-light conditions.

Don't underestimate the value of a high-resolution backup camera with dynamic gridlines that adjust as you turn the steering wheel. This feature makes it easier to back out of your parking spot and can even help prevent minor accidents.

If safety is a top priority, consider cars with additional driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. You’ll find these on newer models.

5. Premium Finishes

Finally, keep an eye out for those premium touches that make a car look and feel a step above the rest. These features can make your used car seem almost new: leather seats, sunroof, premium sound system, and alloy wheels.

While not essential, premium features can make it more pleasurable to drive, and they help your car’s resale value down the line.

Look for features that align with your lifestyle and preferences. If you love music, a premium sound system with immersive speakers might be a top priority. If you love the outdoors, a panoramic sunroof or roof rack could be a nice addition.

Get These Features and More On a Buy Here Pay Here Car From Quick Auto

Although not all buy here pay here used cars will have these premium options, many buy here pay here car lots in Indiana carry impressively well-equipped models.

By looking for these top five features - low mileage, power options, smartphone connectivity, backup cameras, and nice-to-have premium touches - you'll be able to find an excellent used vehicle at Quick Auto, your local buy here pay here car dealership. Look at our inventory online, and spot these features on many of our used cars for sale!

Top 5 Buy Here Pay Here Car Features

Find These Must-Haves In Cars For Sale At Our Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships in Indiana

When you're shopping for a car at buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, there are certain features that can really put the icing on the cake and make you fall in love with a new-to-you ride.

Buy here pay here used cars can come with many of the bells and whistles of brand-new models while offering much better value, if you know what to look for. Keep reading to learn more about five features to seek out when buying from a buy here pay here car dealership like Quick Auto.

1. Low Mileage

Before you worry about USB ports and power lift-gates, one of the most important things to check is the odometer reading. The lower the mileage, the less wear and tear the vehicle has likely experienced. Ideally, look for cars with less than 100,000 miles, but many makes and models will last over 200,000 with the right care. At our Indiana buy here pay here lots, you can find quality vehicles with low mileage.

Keep in mind, the average American drives around 14,200 miles per year. So a five-year-old car with 50,000 miles would be considered relatively low mileage, whereas one with over 100,000 miles for that age is high. Low mileage often means the car has a lot more life left in it, but it also comes down to how the car was maintained and driven.

2. Essential Power Features

Having power windows and locks makes driving much more convenient. No more cranking down windows by hand or fumbling with keys just to get into your vehicle.

Power seats let you adjust to the perfect position with the touch of a button, and remote start lets you warm up your car or cool it down before getting in.

For drivers in Indiana's varying climate, heated seats and a heated steering wheel can be a real lifesaver during the colder months. Consider these features for added comfort and convenience.

Ask about these amenities when shopping at our buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, near Indiana and Michigan.

3. Smartphone Connectivity

These days, it's useful to have technology that syncs with your smartphone for music, navigation, calls, and more. Look for buy here pay here used cars with Bluetooth capability at minimum. This lets you wirelessly connect your phone to the car's audio system.

Some more advanced models may have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which let you use certain phone apps right on the vehicle's infotainment screen. Most models from the last five to eight years have this feature.

Smartphone integration is becoming increasingly important for safety. Look for cars that offer hands-free calling and texting capabilities, as well as voice-activated controls for navigation and music.

4. Backup Camera

Rearview backup cameras help tremendously with visibility, especially when parallel parking or backing out of tight spaces. They offer an extra set of eyes, allowing you to see obstacles or pedestrians that might be out of your line of sight.

Luckily, many buy here pay here used cars manufactured before 2018 were already equipped with backup cameras, as they started appearing in the early 2000s. When evaluating cars at Indiana buy here pay here lots, be sure to test that the backup camera screen provides a clear picture, even in low-light conditions.

Don't underestimate the value of a high-resolution backup camera with dynamic gridlines that adjust as you turn the steering wheel. This feature makes it easier to back out of your parking spot and can even help prevent minor accidents.

If safety is a top priority, consider cars with additional driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. You’ll find these on newer models.

5. Premium Finishes

Finally, keep an eye out for those premium touches that make a car look and feel a step above the rest. These features can make your used car seem almost new: leather seats, sunroof, premium sound system, and alloy wheels.

While not essential, premium features can make it more pleasurable to drive, and they help your car’s resale value down the line.

Look for features that align with your lifestyle and preferences. If you love music, a premium sound system with immersive speakers might be a top priority. If you love the outdoors, a panoramic sunroof or roof rack could be a nice addition.

Get These Features and More On a Buy Here Pay Here Car From Quick Auto

Although not all buy here pay here used cars will have these premium options, many buy here pay here car lots in Indiana carry impressively well-equipped models.

By looking for these top five features - low mileage, power options, smartphone connectivity, backup cameras, and nice-to-have premium touches - you'll be able to find an excellent used vehicle at Quick Auto, your local buy here pay here car dealership. Look at our inventory online, and spot these features on many of our used cars for sale!

Best Buy Here Pay Here Cars for Summer

Plan Your Visit To Our Buy Here Pay Here Car Lot In Indiana

As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, it’s time to hit the road in style with the best buy here pay here cars for summer. Whether you’re planning a road trip, commuting to work, or simply enjoying a leisurely drive, having a reliable and affordable vehicle makes summer even better.

With buy here pay here options, you can get behind the wheel of a car you love without the frustration of traditional financing. Let’s explore some of the top buy here pay here used cars that are perfect for soaking up the sun this summer.

Fuel Efficient Buy Here Pay Here Cars

Summer is synonymous with road trips, and what better way to embark on an adventure than with a fuel-efficient companion? Buy here pay here car dealerships offer a range of options that prioritize fuel economy without compromising on performance or style. Vehicles like the Chevy Cruze and Ford Fiesta are popular choices for summer road trips, thanks to their impressive mileage and reliability.

?     Ford Fiesta: For those who prefer a compact and affordable option, the Ford Fiesta offers agility and fuel economy without sacrificing fun. This is a popular choice for everyday drivers, first-time drivers, and more.

?     Chevy Cruze: This superstar car can get up to 38 miles per gallon on the highway, which can save you a bundle on gas, whether you’re going camping at the Great Lakes, headed to the big car race, or visiting the big city.

?     Chevy Sonic: One of the most economical pre-owned compact cars, the Sonic is surprisingly comfortable, with supportive seats and a smooth ride. When new, these cars came with multiple engine choices, including a turbocharger for people who like a zippier car for navigating city streets and highways.

SUVs For Your Outdoor Adventures

For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, summer is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re camping in the mountains or hitting the beach for a day of fun, having a reliable SUV is essential. Buy here pay here car lots offer a variety of SUVs that are perfect for summer adventures.

?     Jeep Wrangler: The Jeep Wrangler is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its legendary off-road capabilities and iconic design. Whether you’re tackling rough terrain or cruising through the city, the Wrangler delivers unmatched versatility and excitement.

?     Ford Explorer: If you’re in need of extra space for gear and passengers, the Ford Explorer offers ample cargo room and up to three rows of comfortable seating for the whole family. With its powerful engine options and advanced technology, the Explorer is ready for whatever summer throws your way.

?     Chevy Equinox: This SUV is a versatile and reliable vehicle that’s well-suited for summer excursions. With its spacious interior, available all-wheel drive, and advanced safety features, the Equinox provides peace of mind and comfort on every journey.

Family-Friendly Buy Here Pay Here Cars For Your Summer Road Trips

Summer road trips are a cherished tradition for many families, offering the perfect opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. When it comes to choosing a family car for your adventures, comfort, safety, and spaciousness are paramount. Fortunately, buy here pay here car lots in Indiana offer a range of family-friendly options that cater to these needs.

?     Dodge Journey: The Dodge Journey is a smart choice for families looking for space! With three rows of seating that fit up to seven passengers and storage compartments throughout the cabin, you can take along your kids and all their “stuff” everywhere you go. And it’s safe, too; even older models have multiple airbags, stability control, and antilock brakes.

?     Dodge Grand Caravan: For families on a budget, a pre-owned Dodge Grand Caravan provides unbeatable value without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With its spacious interior, clever storage solutions, and entertainment features, the Grand Caravan is designed with families in mind. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, this versatile minivan offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride for the whole family.

Are You Ready To Find Your Ideal Summer Buy Here Pay Here Car?

At Quick Auto, we have buy here pay here used cars for every kind of customer. Consider a trip to one of our buy here pay here car dealerships before summer is in full swing.

Browse our inventory and get pre-approved for financing in just minutes. Say goodbye to financing hassles and hello to endless summer memories behind the wheel of your dream car!

Setting a Used Car Budget

How to Set a Budget for Purchasing a Buy Here Pay Here Car

Owning a car is not a luxury; it’s a necessity! However, getting a car loan isn't always easy, especially if you have a less-than-perfect credit history. It is even harder when you have a strict budget.

Buy here pay here car dealerships offer financing directly to consumers, often catering to those with poor credit or financial struggles. While this can be a lifeline for many in need of transportation, it's crucial to establish a budget that not only covers the cost of the vehicle but also accounts for the repayment process.

When shopping for a buy here pay here car, keeping your budget in mind means you end up with car payments you can afford along with all your other bills. And at buy here pay here car lots in Indiana, you can even get flexible financing, regardless of your credit score.

To help yourself get ready to buy a vehicle, plan ahead and set  your monthly budget. Doing this lets you feel ready to find the perfect buy here pay here used car for you. Creating a budget is easier than you think!

Assess Your Financial Situation

To start your budget, take a look at your finances. Compare your monthly income - the money you earn - to the rest of your expenses. How much do you have left over after all your bills are paid? Part of that could cover a car payment.

Remember to consider bills like your rent, utilities, groceries, self-care items, child care, and other items before visiting a buy here pay here car dealership. It's important to be realistic about your budget and avoid stretching yourself too thin.

Once you have a clear picture of your income and expenses, calculate your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to get a better picture of your financial situation. Your DTI is a measure of how much of your monthly income goes towards debt repayment, including credit cards, loans, and other financial obligations.

Your Buy Here Pay Here Used Car Budget Is More Than a Monthly Payment

Now that you know how much money you may have for a car payment, remember the other expenses of car ownership.

?     Set aside a down payment: You will need to make at least a small down payment toward a new-to-you ride. Look at your savings account and figure out how much you could use for a down payment without compromising your finances during an emergency. You can put together a larger down payment by selling clothes or accessories you don’t wear anymore, trading in your current vehicle, or doing odd jobs around your neighborhood.

?     Consider other car-related bills: You will need to pay to maintain and insure your vehicle. You also will need to put gas in the tank. Consider these costs when making your budget. Shop around for the best insurance rates, making sure you have your state’s required minimum insurance in place as soon as you drive off the car lot.

?     Ask the important questions: Understand any other fees or charges you may need to pay as part of buying a used car. This can include late fees for payments you miss. The salesperson who helps you shop for your vehicle can help answer these questions.

?     Consider loan length: With flexible financing at buy here pay here car dealerships, you may be able to lengthen your loan term to help keep your payments lower. The longer the loan term, the lower the payments you’ll make on a bi-weekly or monthly basis.

Always Stay Prepared With a Buy Here Pay Here Car Budget

No budget is foolproof, and unexpected expenses can come up at any time. Make sure your budget has wiggle room for emergencies. Be honest with yourself about your financial commitments and avoid underestimating your expenses, as this can lead to overspending on your budget.

Consider setting aside part of your income each month for a rainy day fund to cover surprise expenses. By planning ahead, you can avoid financial stress and stay on track with your car payments even when faced with challenges.

Put Your Budget to Work at aBuy Here Pay Here Car Dealership

Now that your budget is set, it’s time to shop. As you do, keep your goal in mind.

You want to buy a car that can be a long-lasting investment that won't be hard to fit into your budget. This way, you can drive off the lot with confidence and peace of mind.

Reach out to your local buy here pay here car dealership to learn more!