How to Purchase a Used Vehicle

how to buy that used car

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. It really doesn't matter if you are a woman or a man when it comes to buying that used car.

2. As we know (no disrespect) there are a lot of cars salesman who are only interested in making their quota. So the next time you are buying that used car or truck I suggest you go with someone who knows about cars. If your not able to find someone to go with you than simply ACT like you know.

3. For instance lets say you have to go alone. Go and look at several lots and choose the type of vehicle that you are interested in. Most of the time the cars salesman is going to sell you a car that you may not be interested in. Tell him/her from the beginning what you like and what you do not like. By no means take his first advice, not unless you're happy with his choice.

4. He will tell you to sit in the car and get a feel for it. Tell him you prefer to see under the hood. When the hood is opened look closely for any loose hoses and especially anything that is taped. Sometimes the car dealer will use black tape to camouflage what ever they taped together.

5. Most likely if there is nothing the matter with a hose for example then there wouldn't be tape there either. At this point the person selling you the car knows that you are looking for something. Ask him/her how many mileages are in the car. Enter the car and see for yourself. Sit in the drivers seat and make sure that all lights in the interior and out are working.

6. You also want to make sure that the horn works too. Check to see that all the windows close and open without getting stuck. If there are any mats on the floor remove them to ensure that there are no holes or signs of wetness. If there is a wet spot it may need a new radiator.

7. Check that all seat belts work. Now turn on the car and listen for any noises. If you hear any pings the car may need new belts or it can signify a bad engine. At this point ask the salesperson to show you the level of the motor oil. When that is done stay in place with car running and back up the vehicle just a little making sure that you do not hear any major clunking noise, because if you do then this car may need transmission work or a new transmission.

8. Inquire about the price of the car again and point out all of the things you heard. if there is not anything major like what i mentioned then maybe they will lower the price or even better yet put you in a better vehicle. In addition make sure that your wipers work you don't want to be caught in the rain without wipers in working condition.

9. Make sure that all doors including the trunk close easily, you should not have to push so hard on a door for it to close. If so then you will probably need new doors and besides it not in working condition.

10. Inspect to make sure that there are no windows cracked. Make sure that the side view mirror and the rear view mirrors work this is a must because if you cant see than you will have an accident.

11. If all is well with you and you purchase this car by law you have 30 days to get your money back. This is called the Lemon Law check in your state because each state differs. The lemon Law refers to any vehicle that fails to meet standard quality and performance. Last take the time to read every piece of paper that you sign and if your not sure ask them to explain or simply tell them that you will take info home to thoroughly read through and return it to them the next day.

12. Last make sure that all tires are in good condition look for wear and tear. If the inside ridges of a tire looks worn then ask the salesperson to replace them.. Wherever the ridges look worn means that new tires are needed. You do not want a flat or worse you do not want that tire falling off while carrying precious cargo.

13. NOTE: I am a female and I am not a car salesman I have the knowledge through commonsense. Good luck on your endeavors and please keep me posted. Hope this is useful information.

[tvalle]

on 8/28/2009 would you care to rate or recommend it?

[designerdigital]

on 8/28/2009 Thanks for the tips.