How to Buy a Program Car

If you are in the market for a car that is as good as new, but you don't want to pay a new car price, then a program car could be what you are looking for. A program car is a new car that has usually between 10,000 to 30,000 miles. Because the cars are directly from new car dealerships, the auto factories and rental car agencies, they are likely to have been well-maintained.

Instructions

1

Decide what model of program car you would like to purchase and determine the price for the vehicle by calling dealerships, checking out dealership websites, the Kelley Blue Book, Automobile Consumer Services and car magazines. Try to get at least two quotes.

2

Call or visit authorized dealerships for the car model you desire to purchase. Ask the dealership whether or not it has any program cars available in your choice of model.

3

View the program car to ensure that it meets your specifications regarding mileage, features, etc. Request to take the program car for a test drive.

4

Check the car's maintenance records. Most of the program cars will have excellent maintenance records because they came from rental car agencies that ensured the vehicles were properly maintained. Also dealerships properly maintain their own cars because they have in-house maintenance and repair shops.

5

Obtain a vehicle history report for the car. You can obtain a vehicle history report at CarFax (See "Resources.) The initial CarFax report is free. You only have to pay if there are negative items on the report that should be brought to your attention.