What to Do After Buying a Used Car in Utah

Congratulations on your new (used) car! You’ve taken a significant step in the car buying journey, but it doesn’t end with the purchase. If you’re like most folks, you’re probably itching to hit the open roads of Utah. But before you take that celebratory drive, there are a few important steps to make sure your new ride is truly ready for the Beehive State.

 Whether you’re cruising around Salt Lake City or planning a weekend getaway to Moab, taking care of the essentials now will save you headaches down the road.

Verify the Title and Registration

Now that you’ve got the keys, it’s time to make sure the car is officially yours—on paper, at least. Transferring the car title and registration is one of the first things you’ll want to tackle.

Why does this matter? Driving a car without the proper paperwork can lead to some pretty hefty fines, and nobody wants that! Plus, getting the title in your name is essential if you ever decide to sell or trade in the car down the road.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Get the Title Signed Over: Make sure the previous owner signs the title over to you. Double-check that everything is filled out correctly—mistakes can cause delays.
• Visit the DMV: Head over to your local Utah DMV office with the signed title, your ID, and proof of insurance. Be prepared to pay a title transfer fee and any applicable taxes.
• Register the Car: While you’re at the DMV, don’t forget to register the car. You’ll need your new title, proof of insurance, and a safety inspection certificate (if required). Once that’s done, you’ll get your shiny new license plates.

• Title and Registration Handled for You: One of the perks of buying from a dealership is that they usually take care of the title and registration process for you. They’ll transfer the title into your name and handle the registration, so you can skip the DMV visit.
• Double-Check Everything: Make sure to confirm that the title has been transferred correctly and that your registration and plates are up to date. It’s always good to follow up and ensure there are no surprises later on.

Purchase or Update Car Insurance

With the title and registration sorted, it’s time to make sure your new vehicle is covered with the right insurance. The right coverage can save you from a lot of stress if anything unexpected happens on the road.

Why it’s crucial: Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Salt Lake City or cruising down I-15, having the right insurance gives you peace of mind. It’s your financial safety net if you ever find yourself in a fender bender or worse.

Here’s how to make sure you’re covered:

1. Review Your Current Policy: If you already have auto insurance, check with your provider to see how adding the new car will affect your coverage and premium. Sometimes, bundling your insurance policies can save you money.
2. Shop Around for the Best Rates: If you’re starting fresh, take the time to compare quotes from different insurance companies. Utah has plenty of options, so don’t settle for the first offer—get quotes from at least three providers to find the best deal.
3. Choose the Right Coverage: Consider what coverage makes sense for you. Liability insurance is the minimum required by law, but you might want to add collision, comprehensive, or uninsured motorist coverage, especially if your car is a bit of an investment.
4. Ask About Discounts: Don’t be shy about asking for discounts! Many insurers offer discounts for good driving records, bundling policies, or even for things like being a good student (for younger drivers). Every little bit helps.

Schedule a Comprehensive Inspection

Even if your used car seemed to be in tip-top shape when you bought it, it’s always smart to give it a thorough once-over after the car purchase. A comprehensive inspection is your best defense against any hidden issues that might be lurking under the hood.

Why it’s important: A pre-purchase inspection is great, but now that the car is yours, you want to ensure everything is in working order, especially before you start racking up miles on Utah’s varied terrain. From the Wasatch Range to the Bonneville Salt Flats, you’ll want your car ready for anything.

Here’s what to do:

1. Find a Trustworthy Mechanic: If you don’t already have a go-to mechanic, now’s the time to find one. Look for someone with solid reviews and experience with your car’s make and model. Local recommendations are gold—ask friends or family who they trust with their vehicles.
2. Request a Full Inspection: Ask your trusted mechanic for a comprehensive inspection, which should cover the engine, transmission, brakes, tires, fluids, and electrical systems. This might cost you a bit, but it’s worth it to catch potential problems before they become expensive repairs.
3. Address Any Issues Promptly: If the inspection turns up any issues, take care of them sooner rather than later. Some repairs might be minor, like replacing worn-out brake pads, but others could be more serious. Either way, handling them now will save you from bigger headaches down the road.
4. Get a Maintenance Baseline: Ask your mechanic to give you a sense of the car’s overall condition and what maintenance might be coming up. This will help you plan (and budget) for future upkeep.

Get an Emissions Test and Safety Inspection

Before you fully embrace the freedom of the open road, there’s one more essential step to check off your list: ensuring your car meets Utah’s emissions and safety standards. Depending on where you live in Utah, these tests might be required before you can officially register your vehicle, and they’re crucial for keeping your car—and the environment—in good shape.

Why it’s important: Utah has specific emissions standards, especially in counties like Salt Lake, Davis, and Utah, where air quality is a big concern. A passing emissions test not only keeps you compliant with state regulations but also ensures your car isn’t contributing to the problem. Similarly, a safety inspection will confirm that your car is roadworthy, protecting both you and other drivers.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Check Local Requirements: First, find out if your county requires an emissions test or safety inspection. Most urban areas in Utah have these requirements, but rural counties might not. A quick check with your local DMV or online can clarify what’s needed.
2. Schedule the Tests: If your county requires them, schedule an appointment for the emissions test and safety inspection at a certified facility. Many local mechanics, oil change centers, and even some DMV locations can perform these tests. Make sure to bring your vehicle’s registration and any required documents.
3. Prepare Your Car: Before heading to the appointment, ensure your car is ready. For the emissions test, make sure your engine is running smoothly—address any check engine lights, and consider taking the car for a short drive to warm up the engine. For the safety inspection, double-check that all lights, signals, and safety features (like seat belts) are functioning properly.
4. What If You Don’t Pass?: If your car doesn’t pass the emissions test or safety inspection, don’t panic. You’ll receive a report detailing the issues that need to be fixed. Once those are addressed, you can retest. In some cases, repair assistance programs might be available to help cover the costs.
5. Submit the Results: After passing both tests, make sure to submit the results to the DMV if required. This is often needed to complete your registration or renew your vehicle’s registration.

Plan for the Future: Warranties and Roadside Assistance

Planning for the future can save you from unexpected hassles. This is where warranties and roadside assistance come into play, giving you extra peace of mind as you explore all that Utah has to offer.

Here’s what to consider:

1. Evaluate Extended Warranties: If your used car came with a manufacturer’s warranty, check the remaining coverage. If the car is no longer under warranty, consider purchasing an extended warranty. These plans can cover major repairs, often including parts and labor. However, weigh the cost against the potential benefits—some drivers prefer to set aside savings for repairs instead of paying for a warranty.
2. Choose a Roadside Assistance Plan: Roadside assistance is a must, especially if you plan on exploring Utah’s more remote areas. These plans typically offer services like towing, flat tire changes, battery jumps, and fuel delivery. Check if your insurance provider offers this, or look into membership programs like AAA. Having this coverage can be a lifesaver when you’re far from the nearest service station.
3. Set Aside an Emergency Fund: Even with warranties and roadside assistance, it’s smart to have a small emergency fund dedicated to car-related expenses. This fund can cover unexpected repairs, new tires, or even minor accidents. It’s a simple way to ensure that an unforeseen issue doesn’t derail your finances.
4. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance: The best way to avoid future problems is by sticking to a regular maintenance schedule. Follow the plan you and your mechanic set up, and don’t ignore any warning signs. Catching small issues early can prevent them from turning into costly repairs later.

If you’re still in the market for a quality used vehicle, or if you’re ready to upgrade, visit Axio Automotive—your trusted used car dealership with eight convenient locations across Utah and Idaho. With locations in Sandy, Southtowne, Orem, Ogden, Wall Avenue, and Boise (two locations), plus Southtowne Mitsubishi, Axio Automotive has a wide selection of vehicles to suit your needs. Stop by today and find your next adventure on wheels!