2007-04-14 17:55:41 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Buying & Selling
ALWAYS have it inspected by a third-party (that has no interest in your car), such as your regular mechanic or an inspection service like AAA inspections.
Don't get "married" to one (i.e. like it so much you MUST have it). A better one may come around if you look a little more. Maybe at the dealer next door, maybe across town.
If you know what model of car you want, check owner's associations for common problems, and remedies. For example, some owners defer major maintanence before selling the car. Or learn about common breakages. For example, the water pump in Ford Contour V6's are known to break every 30 to 40K miles.
NEVER buy extended warranty. They are usually a waste of money if you bought a reliable car any way, and why would you NOT buy a reliable car?
Browse, browse, and browse some more. Take plenty of notes, refuse test drives until you narrow down your candidates. Negotiate prices LATER.
NEVER get a loan from the dealer. They are the most expensive place to get a loan, as they get a cut of your monthly payment.
NEVER give out driver licence info except for test drive, and then you make sure you tear it up afterwards. Some places are known to run your credit report whenever they could.
Have a bottom-line price in mind. Negotiate like this: "Salesman, I'll give you three chances to come up with a price I want. I did my research and I think I have a fair price in mind. Offer me a the lowest price you can on this car. If it's too high, I'll tell you. If you still haven't reached my price by third attempt, I leave. Ready?" Obviously, this only works if you really do have a reasonable price in mind. :) So do your research!
2007-04-14 21:59:57 · answer #1 · answered by Kasey C 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Test drive it, find out the history, and check everything over from interior to engine, tranny, frame, etc. Maybe take it to a mechanic and have it looked over before you purchase the car. This way, you will know what you are forking out the money for. If there's something wrong somewhere, you'll find out first before you're stuck with it after purchasing.
2007-04-14 18:02:21 · answer #2 · answered by FirebirdMan54321 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
run the history on it,contact the previous owner talk to him or her about it,or you can drive like you stole to see if it is a good one,but remember you get what you pay for
2007-04-14 18:01:52 · answer #3 · answered by brian_aka_bigshow 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
go visit this site, all you need to know is in the used car buyers rights section
http://www.carsdirect.com/used_cars/search
2007-04-15 08:12:06 · answer #4 · answered by kpotter47 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋