Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a smart way to save money — but only if you do it right. At Chicago Motor Group, we’ve seen a lot over the years, and we’re here to help you avoid the most common mistakes people make when shopping for pre-owned vehicles.

Here are the Top 5 Used Car Buying Mistakes — and how to avoid them:

? 1. Not Asking for a Vehicle History Report

A free Carfax or AutoCheck report can tell you a lot: accidents, title issues, service history, and more. If the dealer doesn’t offer one up front — that’s a red flag.

? At Chicago Motor Group, every vehicle comes with a free Carfax for peace of mind.

? 2. Skipping the Test Drive

It’s not just about how the car looks — it’s about how it feels on the road. Always test drive the vehicle and pay attention to:

• Unusual noises

• Vibration or pulling

• Brake performance

• Acceleration and steering response

? 3. Ignoring Reconditioning or Inspection

Many dealers sell vehicles “as-is” without fixing anything. That means you could drive off with bald tires, old brakes, or worse. Ask what’s been inspected, serviced, or reconditioned before the car was listed.

? At our dealership, we inspect, service, and test-drive every car before it goes on our showroom floor.

? 4. Focusing Only on Price — Not Value

Everyone wants a deal, but the cheapest car isn’t always the best deal. If it hasn’t been maintained, it could cost you thousands later in repairs. Look for a fairly priced, well-maintained car, not just the lowest number.

? 5. Not Asking About Financing Options

Some customers assume they won’t qualify for financing — or get stuck in a bad loan from a big bank. But many dealerships (like ours!) work with multiple lenders to find the best rate and terms for your situation.

?? We work with all credit types and offer flexible financing, even for first-time buyers or those rebuilding credit.

Final Thoughts

Used car shopping doesn’t have to be stressful — especially when you know what to avoid. At Chicago Motor Group, we’re here to help you make a smart, confident purchase that fits your needs and your budget.

Visit Us or Browse Online Today

?? Chicago Motor Group – 712 S. Westgate Dr, Addison, IL
?? Call: (630) 501-1490
?? Text: (630) 523-8400
?? Browse inventory: www.chicagomotorgroup.com

Your next car is waiting — let’s help you find the right one, the right way.

Why We Started Chicago Motor Group – And What Makes Us Different

If you’ve ever felt frustrated shopping for a used car, you’re not alone — and honestly, we were right there with you. That’s why we built Chicago Motor Group.

With over 15 years in the auto industry, we saw a pattern that didn’t sit right with us:
Dealerships rushing customers into purchases…
Cars sold with no real reconditioning…
And people driving off the lot in vehicles that wouldn’t last.

That’s not how it should be.

A Dealership Built from Experience – and Frustration

After working behind the scenes in dealerships across the Chicagoland area, we noticed a big problem:
Too many dealers were focused on volume, not value.
They didn’t take the time to properly service their cars or treat their customers with respect. And unfortunately, a lot of good people ended up spending thousands of dollars on cars that just weren’t built to last.

We thought: If we’re going to be in this business, let’s do it differently.

So we started Chicago Motor Group in Addison, IL with one clear mission:

?? Help people find dependable, high-quality used cars at fair prices — without the stress, games, or surprises.

What Makes Us Different?

At Chicago Motor Group, we do things the right way — even when it’s not the easiest way.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• ? Every vehicle is inspected, reconditioned, and test-driven before it ever hits our showroom

• ? We operate out of a 9,000 sq. ft. indoor climate-controlled facility, so you can browse year-round in comfort

• ? Our pricing is market-based and transparent — no hidden fees, no “add-ons” after the fact

• ? We work with all credit types and offer financing solutions tailored to your needs

• ? You’ll always deal with real people who genuinely care — no pressure, just honest help

We’re top-rated for a reason — and we work hard to keep it that way.

More Than a Car Lot — We’re a Local Business That Cares

We’re proud to serve customers throughout Addison, Elmhurst, Lombard, Downers Grove, Villa Park, and the greater Chicagoland area.

To us, this isn’t just about selling cars — it’s about building trust. We want to be the dealership you feel confident sending your friends and family to.

Because when you leave here with a car you love and peace of mind?
That’s the real win.

Visit Us or Browse Online

Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to drive something home, we’re here to help:

?? Chicago Motor Group
712 S. Westgate Dr, Addison, IL 60101
?? Call us: (630) 501-1490
?? Text us: (630) 523-8400
?? Browse inventory: www.chicagomotorgroup.com