How to Buy the Right Used Car

Buying a good used car can be daunting. But with a little research and time you can find the right car for your needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Kelley Blue Book
• Newspaper
• Used-car Quote Requests

1. Leave yourself at least one or two months to find the right car.
2. Calculate how much money you have to spend. Take into account sales tax, registration costs and insurance.
3. Obtain financing (if necessary) before you find the car you want, even if buying from a used-car dealer.
4. Decide what type of car you would like: four-door, two-door, hatchback, station wagon, sports utility vehicle, sports car, pickup truck, two or four wheel drive and so on.
5. Decide which options are necessary for you: air conditioning, sunroof, power steering, air bags, anti-lock brakes and so on.
6. Test-drive as many different cars as possible to get a feel for what suits you best. Test-drive friend's cars, cars at used car lots and cars advertised for sale.
7. Check the Kelly Blue Book value of the car you have in mind. This figure will help you bargain, if necessary.
8. Check Consumer Reports' car issue for information about the make and model car you have under consideration.
9. Look in the classified section of your local paper, the Auto Trader and online for the car you have selected.
10. Visit several used-car dealers and tell them what you want. Leave your name and number so that they can call you if they get the car you want in stock.
11. Test-drive any prospective car.
12. Bring any prospective cars to a mechanic for a "prepurchase inspection" before buying.

Tips & Warnings

• When buying from a mechanic or a used-car dealer, find out what the warranty is and get it in writing.
• Ask the seller for all the service and repair records.
• Never buy a used car without getting it checked out by a mechanic!