How do I Buy a Used Car in Missouri?

Used car buyers in Missouri have various places to shop for a vehicle. Sellers include new car dealerships carrying used cars, used car dealers, individual sellers and car auctions. Used car dealers in Missouri and individuals can sell cars "as is," not under warranty. Federal regulations require a used car dealer to post a guide in the car's window that lists basic information about the car and indicates a warranty or lack thereof. If the dealer offers a warranty, get it in writing. Protect yourself when buying a used car in Missouri. Do a little homework and do not buy a used car without thoroughly checking out its condition.

Instructions

1

Learn all you can about various makes and models of the kind of car you're interested in purchasing. Consumer Reports and other consumer guides offer extensive information on recalls and other problems associated with specific models and makes. Choose a range of appropriate cars for your needs, and narrow your search to these models, keeping an open mind in the event of special bargains.

2

Visit used car lots and peruse classified ads, including online community bulletin boards such as craigslist for your local area. Many used car owners post ads online, and often you can find better deals than you might at the used car lot. Test-drive the car you are thinking about purchasing. Take it out on the highway to test for acceleration power, transmission performance, wheel alignment and braking.

3

Pull over to a safe place and check the air conditioner, heater and lights: blinkers, taillights, headlights and backing lights. Get a better look at the car's interior to see if it appears well cared for or not.

4

Step outside and look at the tires and the exterior of the car. Inspecting the car away from the dealership allows you to look the car over without a salesperson hanging over you with a sales pitch. Look at the exhaust pipe for signs the car burns oil, an indication the car has engine problems. If the exhaust contains dark soot, this suggests that the car burns oil. Wipe your finger around the inside edge of the exhaust pipe. Light gray or gray material indicates the car does not burn oil.

5

Buy the car if you like it. If you're dealing direct with the owner, you usually must pay cash for the vehicle. A cash offer can motivate the seller to reduce the price. If you are buying from a dealer and don't want to pay cash, you can obtain financing from a bank or through the dealer; many dealership offer independent financing with fewer restrictions than bank loans. Get the car's title, the inspection slip and obtain appropriate insurance. To license a car in Missouri, you must show proof of insurance, inspection proof and a property tax receipt showing you paid your property taxes, according to the Missouri Department of Revenue.

6

Go to a local Missouri Department of Motor Vehicles armed with the documents obtained in Step 4. Be prepared to pay sales tax on the vehicle.