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Test-drive the car
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During your test drive, make sure to drive up a hill (if possible), on the highway and in stop-and-go traffic. Rattling, clicking, smoke, a loss of engine power or other unusual occurrences suggests additional repairs will be needed.
Be sure to take your time to see if the clutch engages properly, how the car brakes, and how it turns. Remember, the test drive is a crucial time to assess whether you really want the car. We suggest you turn off the radio, roll up the windows and focus on the vehicle.
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Check for liens
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Whether you buy from a private owner, or from a dealership make sure there are no registered liens against the vehicle. Make sure the person who will actually be signing the bill of sale is the correct representative (the dealer, or the actual owner). |
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Check for warranty
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If the car is Certified, make sure to find out the exact items that were inspected and approved.
If the manufacturer’s warranty is still in effect, find out if the remaining original warranty will be transferred to your name. Contact the manufacturer to make sure you can use the coverage.
It’s important to note, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires dealers to post a “Buyers Guide” on all used cars and trucks for sale. This guide specifies whether the vehicle is being sold “as is,” or with a warranty. Take your time to read this disclosure properly.
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Get an independent inspection
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Many people fall in love with a car and forget to have an independent inspection.
To uncover any hidden problems we strongly recommend getting a specialist who really knows the car. For example, it can be difficult to determine if the automatic transmission has been worn out simply by driving the car. One way to deal with this issue is to have an agreement with the seller that you’ll pay for the exam, and the seller will pay if significant problems are discovered.
For $120, a qualified mechanic will be able to assess if the car is accident free, if the mileage is genuine, and/or if the vehicle requires more work. It’s a small price to pay to for a clean bill or to help you avoid a mistake.
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Negotiate
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Do not let the seller’s price be the final word. Know what the car is actually worth and decide what price you can live with. You can take a look at our Research section to find out the current value of the car(s) you’re interested in.
Also be aware that some cars come at a premium. Hybrids, for example, are in short supply on the resale market and can go over asking price. With certain vehicles, i.e. convertibles and SUV’s, location can play a factor in determining price. If you live in an area where these cars are in hot demand you may want to consider contacting dealers out-of-town, or even out-of-state to get a better deal.
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Know what to focus on when negotiating
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If you’re purchasing the car from a dealership establish the price of the vehicle prior to discussing the trade-in. If you have your financing in place, ask the dealer to match or beat your rate. Remember, the dealer wants to keep you happy and sell you the car. They are willing to listen to your needs and will try to match your terms. This will help you successfully negotiate a deal you can live with. |
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Be cautious of the “deal of the month”
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Many sellers have monthly or weekly specials. The deal is only as good as the car it is attached to. Just because you may be getting a good discount doesn’t meant the vehicle is right for you. Also be careful not to spend more than you can really afford because you think you’re getting a great deal. Know your price and stick to it, regardless of how attractive the deal is.
Another thing to remember is that the “deal” or “special price” may still not be the lowest price on that car. If you really, really like it, try to negotiate the price down further.
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Buy the right car for you
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Find the car that’s in great condition, has a reasonable price, and meets all your requirements. Over the last decade technology has made cars safer, more reliable, more fuel efficient and has increased performance to new levels. Finding the car that meets your requirements for style, performance and price is easier than ever.
Buying a used car does not have to be a painful process. With a little help and the proper research you can be assured of finding a car you can enjoy and depend on for years to come.
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