Buying a Used Car This Spring: What to Know Before You Shop

March 20, 2026 · 4 min read

Spring is a popular time to shop for a vehicle, and for many drivers, a used car can offer a strong balance of value, reliability, and features. With a wide range of options available, taking a thoughtful and informed approach can help you make the right choice.

At Fitzgerald Auto Malls, we recommend focusing on research, inspection, and long-term value when shopping for a pre-owned vehicle.

Why Consider Buying a Used Car?

Used vehicles can be a practical option for many buyers, depending on budget and preferences.

Lower purchase price compared to new vehicles
Slower depreciation over time
A wide variety of makes, models, and model years to choose from
Potential access to higher trim levels or features at a lower cost

Every vehicle is different, so it’s important to evaluate condition, history, and overall value—not just price.

Set a Budget and Understand Total Costs

Before starting your search, determine what fits comfortably within your financial plan.

Establish a target monthly payment (if financing)
Factor in insurance, fuel, maintenance, and registration costs
Consider whether you plan to make a down payment
Review your credit profile, as it may impact financing options

Looking beyond the purchase price helps give a more accurate picture of total ownership costs.

Research Vehicles and Compare Options

Taking time to research can help you narrow down the right vehicle.

Compare different makes, models, and trims
Review fuel economy estimates from the EPA
Check safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS
Look into common maintenance needs or reliability trends for specific models

This step can help you identify vehicles that best match your needs and driving habits.

Review the Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report is an important part of the used car buying process.

Look for accident history, title status, and ownership records
Check for service and maintenance history when available
Review mileage consistency

While a history report provides helpful insight, it may not include every detail, so it should be used alongside a physical inspection.

Inspect the Vehicle Carefully

A thorough inspection can help you spot potential concerns.

Check the exterior for dents, rust, or paint inconsistencies
Inspect the interior for wear, odors, or damage
Look under the hood for signs of leaks or corrosion
Take note of tire condition and tread depth

If you want additional peace of mind, consider having the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic.

Take a Test Drive

A test drive is one of the most important steps in evaluating a used car.

Drive on a mix of road types, including city streets and highways
Pay attention to braking, acceleration, and steering
Listen for unusual noises or vibrations
Test key features such as air conditioning, infotainment, and driver-assist systems

This helps you assess how the vehicle performs in real-world conditions.

Understand Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options

Certified pre-owned vehicles can be a helpful option for some buyers.

Typically inspected according to manufacturer guidelines
May include limited warranty coverage (details vary by manufacturer)
Often newer model years with lower mileage

CPO vehicles may offer additional confidence, but it’s still important to review all details carefully.

Review Financing and Trade-In Options

If you plan to finance your purchase, understanding your options is key.

Compare financing through dealerships, banks, and credit unions
Review loan terms, interest rates, and total repayment cost
Research your current vehicle’s estimated trade-in value using third-party tools
Be prepared with payoff information if you have an existing loan

Financing terms and approvals vary based on individual qualifications.

Shop with Confidence This Spring

Buying a used car in April can be a practical choice, especially with a wide range of inventory available. By taking time to research, inspect, and test drive, you can make a more informed decision that fits your needs and budget.

The team at Fitzgerald Auto Malls is available to help answer questions, provide vehicle information, and guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is buying a used car a good option?
Used vehicles can offer strong value and a lower purchase price compared to new vehicles, depending on condition and history.

What should I look for in a used car?
Focus on vehicle condition, maintenance history, mileage, and overall performance during a test drive.

Should I get a vehicle inspection?
Many buyers choose to have a used vehicle inspected by a third-party mechanic for additional peace of mind.

What is a certified pre-owned vehicle?
CPO vehicles are typically inspected to manufacturer standards and may include limited warranty coverage, though details vary.

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Oct 29, 2026

Fitzgerald Auto Malls Hosts Launch of Ride On Bus Campaign Honoring Montgomery County's Green Certified Businesses

County leaders and local business owners gather on Rockville Pike to unveil bus ads celebrating Green Business Certification FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 28, 2026 Media contact: Linda Pineda · 301-881-4000 · PinedaL@FitzMall.com ROCKVILLE, Md. — Bethesda Green and the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection today launched an advertising campaign on Montgomery County Ride On buses that recognizes local businesses that have earned Green Business Certification. Fitzgerald Auto Malls, one of 33 businesses and nonprofits certified through the program, hosted the launch at its Rockville Pike dealership. Jennifer Macedonia of the Department of Environmental Protection led the event, which featured County Council President Natali Fani-González, Councilmember Kate Stewart (District 4), Bethesda Green Executive Director Dave Feldman and Fitzgerald Auto Malls President Rob Smith. For one month, signs on Ride On buses will display the logos of recently certified businesses. Each business will also be featured on the back of its own bus, putting certified companies in front of thousands of riders and motorists across the county. “Our certified green businesses are leading by example, showing that environmental stewardship and good business go hand in hand,” said Feldman. “Fitzgerald Auto Malls embodies that commitment, and we’re grateful for their leadership and for hosting today’s celebration. By putting these businesses on Ride On buses, we’re making sustainability visible, recognizing those taking action and inspiring others to follow their lead.” “We’re proud to be part of a community that takes sustainability seriously, and proud to host today’s launch,” said Smith. “Our customers and neighbors care about how businesses operate, and Green Business Certification is a clear way to show that we do too.” About the Green Business Certification Program Montgomery County’s Green Business Certification Program is a voluntary program that recognizes businesses and nonprofits for environmentally responsible practices in seven areas: waste reduction and recycling, environmental purchasing, energy efficiency and renewable energy, sustainable landscaping and stormwater management, pollution prevention, transportation and travel, and organizational commitment. The program is run by the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection and administered by Bethesda Green. It launched in December 2009 and was relaunched in 2023–24. Certified businesses are listed in the Green Business Directory at bethesdagreen.org. About Fitzgerald Auto Malls Founded by Jack Fitzgerald in 1966, Fitzgerald Auto Malls is 100% employee-owned. The company pioneered posted-price, no-hassle car buying built on trust and transparency. Today, Fitzgerald Auto Malls sells 24 brands at dealerships in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Florida. About Bethesda Green Bethesda Green is a Montgomery County nonprofit working toward a more sustainable future. It administers the county’s Green Business Certification Program and operates a green business incubator at 4825 Cordell Ave., Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814. Learn more at bethesdagreen.org, 202-350-0642 or hello@bethesdagreen.org. Join the Network Inspired to get on board? Montgomery County businesses and nonprofits are invited to join the growing network of certified green businesses. Start by completing Bethesda Green’s “Get On the Bus!” preliminary application at bethesdagreen.org.

Oct 27, 2026

Fitzgerald Auto Malls Brings ESOP Town Halls to Employee-Owners, With a Focus on Growing Leaders From Within

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Fitzgerald Auto Malls Brings ESOP Town Halls to Employee-Owners, With a Focus on Growing Leaders From Within Company leadership is meeting face to face with employees across its dealerships to discuss opportunity, development and what it means to think like an owner ROCKVILLE, Md., October 27, 2026. Fitzgerald Auto Malls, an employee-owned dealer group serving Maryland, Pennsylvania and Florida, has held 18 of 22 planned ESOP Town Halls this year, with four more to come. The sessions bring the company’s full leadership team to its dealerships to speak directly with employee-owners. This year’s theme is internal growth. Leaders are discussing career opportunities within the company, developing the next generation of leaders from within, and where the company is headed. “One of my favorite things we do every year is our Town Halls,” said Rob Smith, President of Fitzgerald Auto Malls. “We want our people to see opportunity here. We want to develop our next group of leaders from within. And we want our employee-owners to understand where we’re going and the role they can play in getting us there.” Since January 2023, Fitzgerald Auto Malls has been 100% owned by its employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The company contributes shares to each eligible employee’s ESOP account at no cost to the employee, and the value of those shares grows as the company grows. At each Town Hall, leaders explain how the plan works and how employees can follow their own ownership stake. Each leader who presents speaks to what ownership means in their own area of the business. The message is that ownership is something employees live every day, not just something that appears on a statement. Leaders from sales, service, parts, marketing and training share what is working and what is next, so employees can see how their own jobs connect to the company’s results. Every employee is also asked to pick one way to grow the value of the company this year: earn a five-star customer review, fix it right the first time, cut one piece of waste, or refer a customer or teammate. Leaders also discuss the company’s continued investment in its facilities, with a focus on factory image compliance. Fitzgerald is building and renovating stores to meet manufacturer image standards, including stand-alone facilities for Genesis and Hyundai in Rockville, a renovation of its Hyundai store in Florida to meet the manufacturer’s updated requirements, and a new service department and image work at Annapolis Kia. Planning is also under way for a new Subaru facility in Rockville. These investments strengthen our partnerships with the manufacturers we represent, expand service capacity, create new career opportunities, and add to the value shared by our employee-owners. “We know buildings don’t sell cars,” Smith said. “But great facilities help us attract great people, and great people give our guests a great experience.” To learn more about employee ownership at Fitzgerald Auto Malls, visit www.FitzMall.com About Fitzgerald Auto Malls Fitzgerald Auto Malls began in 1966 as a single Dodge dealership. Today it represents 24 automotive brands across Maryland, Pennsylvania and Florida. The company is family founded, employee owned and customer-driven. Media contact: Heather Salb, Marketing Director, 301-881-4000, SalbH@FitzMall.com

A person inspecting a damaged car while taking notes.

Oct 22, 2026

What to Expect When Getting a Collision Repair Estimate

Being in an accident is scary enough. Getting a collision repair estimate after an accident is overwhelming too, especially if you've never been through the process before. We’ll show you what to expect ahead of time, so in case the unexpected happens, the experience will hopefully be far less stressful so you can make clear-headed decisions about your vehicle. Why a Collision Repair Estimate Matters A collision repair estimate is more than just a price quote—it's a detailed breakdown of what your vehicle needs to get back to pre-accident condition. Understanding this document helps you communicate more effectively with your repair shop and your insurance company. Without an accurate estimate, repairs can be delayed, costs can balloon, and the quality of work may fall short of what you deserve. What Happens During the Estimate Process When you bring your vehicle in for a collision repair estimate, a trained technician will inspect the visible and hidden damage to your car. They'll document everything from dented panels and scratched paint to structural concerns that aren't always obvious at first glance. This initial inspection is one of the most important steps in the auto body repair process because it sets the foundation for every decision that follows. At Fitzgerald Auto Malls, the goal is always transparency. Technicians walk you through what they find and explain why each repair is necessary, so you're never left guessing about what's going into your estimate. Understanding the Breakdown of Costs A thorough collision repair estimate will typically outline labor costs, parts costs, and any materials needed for paint matching or surface preparation. Labor rates can vary depending on the complexity of the damage and the type of vehicle involved. Parts may be OEM (original equipment manufacturer), aftermarket, or reconditioned, and the difference matters for both fit and longevity. The auto body repair process also often involves supplemental estimates—additional charges discovered once a vehicle is disassembled and deeper damage is uncovered. This is normal and expected, so don't be caught off guard if the final cost adjusts slightly from the original quote. Working With Your Insurance Company Most drivers rely on their insurance coverage to help manage collision repair costs. Your insurer may send their own adjuster to review the damage, or they may accept an estimate from a Certified repair facility directly. Either way, your collision repair estimate is the key document that drives the claims process forward. It's important to review your estimate carefully before signing off on any repairs. Ask questions if something is unclear, get a second opinion if anything feels off, and make sure the shop you choose has experience working with your insurance provider. Choosing the Right Repair Shop Not all collision repair shops operate the same way. Certifications, equipment, and experience all play a role in the quality of work you'll receive. Look for a shop that uses proper diagnostic tools, employs Certified technicians, and offers a clear warranty on completed repairs. Shops that are transparent about their auto body repair process from the start are usually the ones that deliver the best results. Visit Fitzgerald Auto Malls for Your Collision Repair Estimate When you need a reliable collision repair estimate, the team at Fitzgerald Auto Malls is ready to help. With a commitment to honest assessments and quality workmanship, Fitzgerald Auto Malls is a trusted resource for drivers looking to get their vehicle back on the road the right way. Reach out today to schedule your estimate and take the first step toward a smooth, stress-free repair experience.