How to Buy Second Hand Cars

Buying second-hand cars is a smart move because you are not paying the full price and experiencing the drastic depreciation a vehicle is subject to when it is driven off the lot. Buying cars second hand from a private party can also cut excessive dealer fees and markups as well as the pressure of purchasing additional extended warranties, paint protection plans, tire protection plans and other service plans. Whether a second-hand car is purchased from a car lot or a private party, there are some important steps to ensure you are getting a good deal and a safe car before finalizing the purchase.

Instructions

1

Decide on a budget or price range for your second-hand car. To avoid paying interest, use cash. If you will need financing, apply for it at several banks, locally or online, to find out your available financing line before your start shopping.

2

Decide on the make and model of the car or types of cars you are interested in. How many doors would you prefer? How many seats are needed for your family to fit? Is trunk space important?

3

Pick up free used car sales guides at local stores and from newspapers and check the ads for available second-hand cars. These guides will give you a picture of the inventory available and the prices. Find cars that meet your criteria.

4

Search for cars on the Internet through classifieds, car sales websites, dealerships and online auctions. Check to see if prices and inventory are better online. Print an information page on second-hand cars that meet your criteria.

5

Arrange to have a look at the cars that meet your criteria. Write down the VIN number, usually found on the dash or in the driver's door on the frame. Take digital pictures of the car's interior and exterior so that you can compare your options later at home. Usually, your pictures will be more accurate than the salesman's pictures, which are taken in the best light and could be digitally retouched.

6

Research the second-hand cars you have found by checking their vehicle history and whether they have been in a flood, wrecked or stolen using the VIN. Some vehicles histories are available online for free and some dealerships will give you some information at no cost, but it can be incomplete. It is best to spend a little money and time to do your own checking. For instance, purchase a report that reports all accidents, not just major ones. More comprehensive reports will cost more than a report with less thorough researching. Look for more in-depth information on vehicle history reports in "References" and places to research your own information in "Resources."