How to Buy a Used VW Bug Beetle

Buying a used VW Bug Beetle can be an exciting but stressful experience. With used cars, the benefit of a lower price is balanced by the added complications of a shorter warranty (if any) and lack of knowledge about the car's history. The more knowledge you can acquire about the vehicle and market prices before entering the used car buying market, the easier and more pleasant the process will be.

Instructions

1

Decide on some specifics concerning the Beetle you want. Think about the year, model, accessories and price range. Peruse automobile websites such as edmunds.com, cars.com or consumerreports.org to learn all you can about the model's reliability, options, trim levels and expected cost.

2

Decide whether to purchase the Beetle from a private seller or a dealership. Private sellers often have lower prices, but dealerships can offer more variety as well as warranties and financing options that will not be available from a private seller.

3

Arrange financing through a bank or credit union, if needed. This is an important step if buying from a private party. Dealerships can help arrange financing, but buyers can still arrange their own financing if they want.

4

Search for Beetles. Craigslist.org, cars.com, and autotrader.com are popular sites that all list vehicles from dealers and from individual buyers. Your local newspaper will also have listings in the classified section.

5

Test drive and get a feel of any Beetles that seem to fit your needs. Make sure there are no obvious problems with the vehicle. Don't fall in love with the first vehicle you drive, as this can make you forget to go through the rest of the steps.

6

Obtain a vehicle history report on any Beetle you are seriously considering. These reports are available through several websites, but autocheck.com and carfax.com seem to provide the most comprehensive reports.

7

Hire a company like Auto P. I. or consult with your own mechanic to do a full vehicle inspection once you are sure you want to try to buy a specific Beetle. Most used Beetles will have minor issues due to normal wear and tear, but a mechanic can spot excessive wear and tear and mechanical problems that could cause major future issues. The cost of this inspection can save money down the road.

8

Offer the seller a price. If buying from a dealership, consider offering an out the door price, including all fees, not just a vehicle purchase price before fees are added. Be willing to negotiate, but settle on a maximum price before you negotiate. Do not go above that price and be willing to walk away.

9

Complete any documentation required to transfer ownership of the Beetle. Dealerships will usually arrange to send all necessary paperwork, taxes and fees to local and state governments and the finance company. Watch for hidden extras added in the contract by dealers. Taxes and fees will be paid directly to the government by the buyer or the finance company if the Beetle is sold by a private seller.