Remember that “check list” Jody Victorsuggested last time? Here are some more items you can add to that list to make sure you are buying a good, safe used car.
Jody Victor: Make sure the mileage rates at about 15,000 per year (ie; a five year old car should have about 75,000 miles on it). The engine oil should be reddish brown in color (not black). Check under the car for frame damage—this is the best way to tell if the car has been in a major accident. Check for broken windows, mismatched tires, any of these kinds of clues might let you know the previous owner didn’t take good care of the car. Check your state and county emissions regulations and that the car meets those regulations, has current tags and that the air conditioner is working properly.
Test driving the car is a must! You can listen to the engine and get a feel for the breaks—if they are not working properly this can be a costly repair. Test the car in different conditions: hills, stop and go traffic, highways. However the best advice is to spend $150 for an independent mechanic to check out the car, the most objective opinions are going to come from independent garages.
Also remember, the best new cars make the best used cars—look for top-rated brands and models.
Once you are ready to shop, where should you go? There are many options for used cars including franchise and independent dealers, rental and leasing companies, used car specialty stores, and of course private owners. However private owners are the most risky unless you are buying from someone you can trust, a friend or family member—dealers must follow several laws dictating what they can sell.
At dealerships many used cars in showrooms are not trade-ins from individuals, but come from lease and rental companies, which tend to be better cars because of regular maintenance and lower mileage. On the flipside, however, private sellers might be more willing to yield to lower prices.
Now, you might be ready to start bargaining. Shop around and see what others are asking for the same make and model that matches, as closely as possible, the car you are interested in. Start bargaining below that number, the worst that can happen starting low is a “no” answer. If you find problems with the car according to the checklist, mention these during the negotiations—this may help you get the price you want.
After determining who to buy a used car from, and using the stated tips to evaluate the cars you like, you can start bargaining. Goog Luck!
Thanks, Jody! Great tips!