What to Do When Buying a Used Car From an Individual?

Have a mechanic check over a used car.

The Edmunds website states that purchasing a used car instead of a new one can save you up to to 30 percent off a new car price. Take precautions when buying used so that you do not spend more money than intended.

Pricing

Check pricing for the vehicle you intend to buy. Use the Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book websites to access appraisal guide values for a car. Check private sale pricing to make sure you are not spending too much. Private sellers, like dealers, may ask too much for a vehicle.

State Procedures

Contact your state's motor vehicle department before you agree to a purchase. You are solely responsible for registering and titling your vehicle--you'll need the correct paperwork to do so. Find out your state's rules beforehand, such as whether or not the buyer's signature has to be notarized, if you need an odometer statement, previous proof of registration or if lien holders, which signify an open bank loan, are allowed on the vehicle's title. Make sure the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches on both the vehicle and the title. You can find the VIN inside the driver's side doorjamb or driver's side front windshield by the dashboard.

Vehicle Condition

Arrange to take the vehicle to a mechanic before you buy. While dealerships are required in some states to provide a limited warranty for a used car, private sellers are not. Make sure that the car you buy will not need significant repairs in the near future, or make sure that the selling price reflects repairs that your mechanic recommends, or warns will soon be necessary. A mechanic can also let you know if your car will pass your state's emissions and inspections testing.

References

• Edmunds: 10 Steps to Buying a Used Car

Resources

• Kelley Blue Book
• Edmunds