How to Choose the Right Used SUV in Des Moines

Shopping for a used SUV in Des Moines isn’t always easy, especially when winter is still hanging around. Snow and ice make test drives a bit more complicated, and cold temps aren’t always ideal for walking a lot and checking out several options in one outing. Still, now is a good time to look. If you know what you want and how the SUV will fit into your everyday routine, you can walk into your search feeling ready. A vehicle that works for your life is better than one picked in a rush. We’ve put together a few clear steps to help you focus your search and find the one that truly makes sense for you and your family.

SUVs come in all shapes and sizes. Some have three rows, some don’t. Some ride low like a car, while others sit higher with more clearance. Knowing what you need is the best place to start.

• Do you do a lot of in-town driving during the week, or are you going back and forth across the state on highways?
• Do you take gear with you often, like sports equipment, strollers, or tools?
• Are you traveling with kids or pets who need extra room in the back?

Here in Iowa, the weather can change fast. All-wheel drive might be important if you're often driving in snow or slush. But if most of your driving is in town or on plowed roads, front-wheel drive may be just fine. Start with your own habits. That helps narrow down which size and features make sense, and you’re less likely to be swayed by something that looks good but doesn’t fit your needs.

It can be fun to see all the buttons and screens in some SUVs, but not everything will matter to you. Focus on what helps make your drive more comfortable and safer in the winter.

• Heated seats and a remote start are worth looking for if you park outdoors
• All-weather floor mats and rear wipers are small details that make a big difference
• Look for driver-assist options you’ll really use, like rearview cameras or blind spot warnings

It’s easy to get distracted by features that sound exciting but won’t serve a real purpose for you. Stick with the ones that solve problems or add convenience to your daily drives. If you’ve never used a certain feature before, don’t feel pressured. You shouldn’t have to learn an entire system just to start the radio or adjust the heat.

Grinnell Motors keeps an inventory of used SUVs with features suited for Iowa winters, including heated seats, remote start, AWD, and easy-to-use technology. Our team checks every SUV for quality and keeps updated service records available before any test drive.

Before you commit to anything, learn about the SUV’s past. What it’s been through can tell you how it might perform going forward. We’re not just talking about the odometer. You’ll want to understand how well it was taken care of, especially with our Iowa winters being so hard on vehicles.

• Always ask for a service or vehicle history report
• Watch for signs of rust or wear usually caused by winter salt
• Consider certified options that have already gone through basic inspections

A newer-looking SUV isn’t always the best choice if it’s been in multiple accidents or hasn’t had regular service. On the flip side, a slightly older vehicle that was regularly taken in for oil changes and checkups may be more dependable through the rest of the winter and beyond. Don’t be afraid to ask how and where the vehicle was used before, especially if it looks like it came from a different region.

We know it’s not always fun to test drive a vehicle in the middle of winter, but it’s still worth doing. In fact, this time of year can help you spot issues you might not catch on a sunny spring day.

• Make sure the SUV warms up quickly and that all heating functions work
• Test the windshield wipers, lights, and defroster to check visibility
• Listen to how the engine sounds once it’s been running for a few minutes

If possible, plan your test drive during a quieter part of the day when traffic is light. That gives you space to try out the brakes, turns, and acceleration without stress. Cold starts are especially helpful for getting a feel for how well the SUV handles in colder conditions. Do you feel too many vibrations? Is the steering tight or sluggish? These are hard to fake and might save you a tough surprise down the road.

Getting the details upfront can save you problems later. Just like with any big decision, it’s better to ask questions now rather than deal with issues after driving off the lot.

• Has the SUV been checked for winter readiness, battery, tires, brakes?
• Are any repairs needed soon, or has anything just been replaced?
• Is there any kind of limited service plan or short-term warranty offered?

Even if everything seems in order, ask if the vehicle has been driven recently, especially in cold temps. This helps you know whether you’re getting something that’s already proven itself in winter weather or one that hasn’t really been through it. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel going into the final decision.

Looking for a used SUV in Des Moines doesn’t have to wear you out. The key is starting with a few clear ideas of what matters most, how you’ll use it, what features help your day run smoother, and whether the vehicle was treated well. These practical things do more to define value than flashy extras do.

Once you think through those basics and take time to test drive, you’ll feel more ready to trust your decision. Choosing a vehicle during late winter can be tricky, but the season is actually a good test for real-life driving. If an SUV feels good now, it’ll only feel better by spring.

Ready to explore your options? We make it simple to find the right used SUV in Des Moines without the hassle. Our inventory stays up to date with feature-packed choices perfect for Iowa weather and a variety of daily routines. Whether you have a specific model in mind or just want to browse, our team at Grinnell Motors is here to help at your pace. Reach out whenever you're ready to start your search.