How to Buy a Used Car on AutoTrader.com

There is a saying about buying a used car being the equivalent of buying someone else's problems. Before buying your next used car, it is important that you compare all available options, select a trusted source for your purchase and read reviews on the vehicles you are considering. Buying a used car isn't for all consumers; risks are more inherent in a vehicle that has been pre-owned than one that is factory-new. By taking steps to minimize risks through research and knowledgeable shopping, your car-buying experience will be enhanced overall.

Things You'll Need

• Access to the Internet

Instructions

Research Used Cars

1. Navigate to http://www.autotrader.com.

2. In the "Research and Compare" area, select either certified or used cars.

3. Under "Used Cars", browse through the information provided on purchasing a used vehicle. Following the steps provided for tips on setting a spending limit, researching all options, test-drives, inspections and financing.

4. Under "Certified Cars", understand how a used car undergoes certification, how that will impact the car in performance and salability, and compare different certification programs.

Search for Available Used Cars

1. Navigate to http://www.autotrader.com.

2. In the "Find Your Car" area, enter your zipcode or the zipcode of the area where you wish to buy your new vehicle.

3. Select the make you desire to purchase and click Next.

4. Change the radius button to search for used cars or certified cars and using the drop-down menu, select the radius around your designated zipcode that you wish to search.

5. Select the body style of the used car you wish to buy and then select the model that corresponds with the make you previously chose. At this point, you can also select up to two other makes and models.

6. Select the year range for your used vehicle.

7. Select a price range to search within.

8. To select additional criteria, click the plus sign next to "view more search criteria" to expand. Select any options that will influence your purchase.

9. Click Search AutoTrader. The results of your search will display. If no options are displayed, modify your selections to be less exclusive.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the widest possible search criteria, so your options are not limited to only one or two available vehicles and so that there are more pricing options.

• Always inspect a used car visually and have it inspected by a mechanic before buying. Never buy a vehicle over the Internet sight-unseen.

• Many used vehicles of the same make and model are available for purchase, allowing the luxury of being picky on attributes and condition. Take advantage of the availability of multiple cars to ensure that your purchase is the best possible option.