How to Safely Buy and Inspect a Used Car

Without transportation, the world economy would grind to a screeching halt. Almost every adult relies on their car or truck to get them to work, the grocery store or wherever it is that they need to go. It's no wonder that there are so many used car dealerships, especially considering the potential for profit when dealing with such high priced products.

Automobiles are complicated pieces of machinery, and there is a lot of potential for hidden problems that may only arise after you've bought the vehicle. This article contains information that I learned as an employee of a small used car dealership. It contains information that will help you avoid buying a car that has major mechanical problems. I will also provide tips on buying a car including negotiating and info to help you spot an unlicensed car dealer, or curbstoner, as they are sometimes called.

Buying A Used Car:

It's is so very important to inspect any used car thoroughly- even if you're shopping at established car dealerships, but even more so if you're buying from an individual. The first step in buying a used car is to find one. I recommend looking in Craigslist or your local newspaper. You can either look at one car at a time, or several in a day. Once you've got your list, it's time to call the owner of the car.

Phone Interview:

There are a few important questions you should ask to get a feel for the car. Feel free to omit any questions that are answered in the advertisement. You should ask about any noises the car makes, ask if it smokes. Ask if it shakes or does anything unusual. Ask how many miles are on the odometer, and what type of transmission the car has if that is something that is important to you. Ask about body damage.

Ask if the registration is current- if the registration is not current, or it expires very soon, you should beware. Odds are that the car failed a state smog inspection. This could be very costly, and is indicative of mechanical problems. Also, it's generally a headache and creates an unnecessarily stressful situation.