How to Use a Professional Buyer to Buy a New Car

According to the Edmunds car research website, many new car buyers save hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars by hiring a professional buyer to handle the transaction. Buyers also save time for their clients because the person hiring them does not have to spend hours traveling to dealerships and haggling with salespeople and managers. Finding and using a professional buyer is not difficult if you know the right steps to follow.

Instructions

1

Locate several professional car buyers so you can determine who is right for you. The Edmunds car research website says you can find professional car buyers online or in your local Yellow Pages, or you can get recommendations from friends or car-buying forums. You don't necessarily have to be limited by geography. Edmunds says that many professional car buyers will handle deals nationwide.

2

Narrow your list by checking out each professional buyer's background. Check with the Better Business Bureau and online complaint websites. Search car-buying forums to see if there is any feedback on the buyers on your list. Weed out anyone who has consistently bad feedback.

3

Contact the professional car buyers on your list to find out how much they charge for their service and to get more information about their business. Edmunds says the charge should be a flat fee that typically starts at $200, although it can be as much as $1,000 if you're purchasing a rare or hard-to-find model. The fee will be offset by the money you save on your purchase, which is typically several hundred dollars. You should also ask about the buyer's experience, background and how he finds deals. A professional buyer should not have any ties to a particular dealership.

4

Choose a professional buyer based on your talks with the buyers on your list. While you might want to pay the smallest fee possible, also base your choice on the buyer's experience and feedback from people who have used her services.

5

Put your agreement with the professional buyer in writing. The contract should spell out the fee, exactly what the buyer will be doing for you, and any timeframes you have agreed upon. This will prevent any misunderstandings later. If the buyer makes any promises that are not in the contract, have him add them in and initial them. Verbal promises cannot be enforced unless they are put in writing.

How to Buy Ronoco Scooters

Rising gas prices have caused many people to seek an alternate mode of transportation that saves gas and money. Ronoco scooters provide fuel-efficient transportation at a low price. These scooters, which are clones of Yamaha scooters licensed to be made in China, provide the same great features and quality of Yamaha for thousands of dollars less, costing just $700 to $2,000.

Instructions

1

Determine the features you want for your scooter. Ronoco scooters have a number of features, including AM/FM radios, MP3 adapters, alarm systems, luggage trunks and more.

2

Determine the size of engine you want. Scooter engines are measured in cubic centimeters (cc); generally, the bigger the engine, the more powerful the scooter will be, but bigger engines are less fuel-efficient than smaller ones.

3

Find a shop that sells Ronoco scooters. You may be able to find a local dealer, but it is much more likely that you will have to order one online.

4

Purchase the scooter that best fits your needs and arrange for its delivery. Many online stores will offer free shipping.

Tips on Buying a Used Car From a Dealer

Used cars can be an excellent bargain because their sales prices are usually significantly lower than new models. A used car that is in good condition can give you years of good service. Although there are many sources from which you can purchase a used vehicle, you might prefer the convenience of buying one from a dealer. If you do, you'll need to do some research and negotiate wisely to get a reliable car for the best possible price.

Finding Cars

Many dealers list their used car inventories online so you can search it from your computer before you spend the time driving to the dealership. Some also list cars on sales sites like Auto Trader. Search ads and dealer inventories to compile a list of likely cars you'd like to see in person.

Researching Prices

Before going to dealerships to look at the used cars in which you are interested, do some price research. You can access Kelly Blue Book online to get the wholesale, retail and private party cost of any type of used car. Use this as a baseline. Find prices for similar vehicles at other dealerships and in classified ads placed by private parties. This will give you negotiating power when you are at the dealership looking at a likely used car.

Shopping

Be prepared to spend some time shopping at dealers for your used car, looking at vehicles and test driving them. Don't let a dealer pressure you into making a fast purchase. Go to all the dealers you identified on your list and look at all the cars before you make a final choice. Make notes on your list about the car's condition, the way it drives, and anything else that might help you make your decision. Narrow down your list, and ask the dealer if he is willing to let you have the car examined by an independent mechanic. If he is reluctant, mark that car off your list.

Negotiation

When you have decided on the used car you'd like to buy--and a mechanic has verified that it is in good shape--negotiate a fair price. Most dealers leave negotiation room in their stated prices. Make your offer based on your previous research and the condition of that particular car. If the dealer will not accept your offer, move on to the next vehicle on your list unless you think the original price is actually acceptable.

Contract

When the dealer agrees to an acceptable sales price for the used car, have her put it in writing in a contract. If she makes any verbal promises, make sure she specifies them in writing in the contract. If she does not, they will be unenforceable. Watch for any hidden fees that the dealer might try to work into the contract. Read it thoroughly and demand any appropriate changes before you sign it.

Audi A4 2005 Vs. 2006

Launched in the mid-1990s, the Audi A4---a compact luxury car---helped rescue the German car manufacturer Audi AG from declining sales during the previous decade. Audi re-designed the sedan trims of the A4 early in the 2005 model year, thus abruptly beginning the third generation for the car and making the 2006 A4 the first full-year entry for this particular production cycle. The 2005---both 2005a and b---and the 2006 Audi A4 feature sedan and convertible body styles.

Trims and Engines

The Audi A4 trims are usually named according to their engine capacity. The 1.8s has the 1.8-liter 170-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine, the 2.0s has the 2.0-liter 200-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine and the 3.0s has the 3.0-liter 220-horsepower V6 engine. The 3.2 trims, which were added with the 2005b and were still around for the 2006 A4, have 3.1-liter 255-horsepower V6 engines.

Fuel and Transmission

Depending on trim, the standard transmission is a five-speed automotive or manual, a six-speed manual or a continuously variable (CVT) gearbox. The size of the 2005 and 2006 Audi A4 gas tanks varies between 17 and 19 gallons. The 2005b Audi A4 sedans with 2.0-liter engines and CVT achieve the best gas mileage at 24 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 32 mpg for highway driving. The 3.0 trims of the 2005a vehicles offer the worst, with 17/26 mpg.

Interior

Power door locks, driver, front side and passenger airbags, vehicle anti-theft system, electronic brake assistance, traction control and vehicle stability control system are some of the standard safety features of the 2005 and 2006 Audi A4s. The vehicles also feature cruise control, leather steering wheel and leather seats, stereo system with AM/FM radio and CD changer, power windows and trip computers are other standard interior features. Optional features include second-row side airbags, navigational systems, and sunroofs for the sedans. While steering wheel-mounted controls were optional on the 2005a, they were made standard on the 2005b and 2006 A4s.

Exterior

The 2005 incarnations of the Audi A4 come with 16-inch alloy wheels. The 2006 A4, however, has its 3.2 trims sporting 17-inch ones. Fog lights and heated power side mirrors were standard on all model years, with the option to get HID lights, rear spoilers for the sedans and wind deflectors or buffers for the convertibles. The glass rear window on the convertible, however, which was made standard for the 2005 Audi, was removed for the 2006 version.

Price

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the early 2005 Audi A4s ranged from $23,823 for the 1.8 T sedan to $40,868 for the 3.0 quattro Cabriolet w/Tiptronic convertible, with the re-designed sedans within the $25,234 to $32,828 range. The 2006 A4 had a MSRP price range of $26,043 to $42,010. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates that price value for these cars can range from as low as the $14,000s for the sedan trims of the 2005a vehicle to as high as the $24,000s for the convertible trims of the 2006 A4.

How to Find Used Cars for Sale by Private Sellers in Canada

Private seller used car sales are some of the most common, according to Car Clicks, an online resource guide to buying used cars. Buying a used car from its owner has two distinct advantages--a price that is likely in line with book values, and the ability to get insight into its maintenance history and care. Although the search for used cars sold by private sellers in Canada might seem daunting, it is a straightforward process.

Instructions

1

Search online sales and auction sites such as eBay which has sub-sites that specifically focus on used cars in a particular country or region . Thanks to the Internet, you can now buy a car online just as easily as a book or an MP3 player. Just like buying any item on an auction site, search tools allow you to specify the kind of used car you are looking for, your ideal price range and your location--and the auction site provides a list of available cars. Private sales sites such as MotoSeller Canada take the classified ad concept and put it online--although private sellers can specify their location, the classifieds are searchable by Canadians in any province.

2

Check classified ads in your local newspaper. Private sellers rely on the classified ad section as a way to sell a used car efficiently. If you cannot locate a copy of your local paper, check an online newspaper directory such as Newslink. Sites like these provide online links to all of the daily and weekly newspapers in a community, including the classified ads section. Sites generally categorize Canadian newspaper links by province and then by town.

3

Look on community Internet boards. Community or neighborhood newsgroups and internet sites such as Craigslist offer an easily searchable resource to find used cars sold by private sellers. Ask around your neighborhood or search online to find neighborhood-specific newsgroups--usually founded on Google Groups or Yahoo Groups--and check out the city-specific classifieds on Craigslist to find your next set of wheels.

How to Buy a Used Hybrid Car

With gas prices climbing, more and more people are turning to hybrid cars to save money. If you're considering a hybrid car but don't want to shell out the money for a new model, then buying a used hybrid might be the way to go. However, with concerns about replacing battery packs and the car's general lifespan, there are some things you should do to correctly buy a used hybrid.

Instructions

1

Survey the models. The last few years have seen a marked increase in the variety of hybrid cars on the market. Take a look at what's out there. Pay attention to the different kinds of hybrid energy sources cars use, such as electric and gas, and how you maintain or recharge the hybrid. A few notable hybrid cars to look at are the Toyota Prius, the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Ford Escape Hybrid.

2

Treat the used hybrid like a regular used car. To begin, do what you normally would do to buy a used car. First, check the Kelly Blue Book value of the car against the owner's asking price. Then request a lifetime report for the car to see if it's sustained any damage or had serious malfunctions. Also, try to get an understanding of who the seller is and if he or she is trustworthy.

3

Shop around online. To widen your search radius for a good hybrid and to further educate yourself about the used hyrbid market, check out sites like HybridTraderOnline.com which specializes in aggregating used hybrids from other sites. While you shouldn't just click and buy a hyrbid through the Internet, using the web as a jumping-off platform is a good way to go.

4

Get the car checked out. One of the biggest concerns that used hybrid buyers have is the condition of the car's battery pack. A battery pack is extremely expensive to replace, so buying a car with a fading battery pack is very poor value. The best way to get the car checked is to take it to a dealership that sells that model. This might cost you a bit more money but in the long run you'll be better off.

How to Calculate How Long a New Car Will Take to Pay for Itself

Before making your next car purchase, figure out how long the car will take to pay for itself. The price of gas, the type of car and how frequently the car is used are the easiest factors you can use to determine how long it will take a new car to pay for itself. Using a few simple calculations, you can use these factors to determine if your next car purchase offers the most value for its price tag.

Instructions

1

Use a calculator to perform a few basic calculations about fuel economy. You can also go to the FuelEconomy.gov website for a complimentary car comparison calculator.

2

Determine the miles per gallon (MPG) of your new car. Check the owner's manual or contact your local dealer for miles per gallon information. For this example, let's assume your new car, Car A, can get 30 mpg. If you drive Car A for 20,000 miles a year at an average gas cost of $4 per gallon, the yearly fuel cost for Car A is $2,666, or $12,333 over five years.

3

Make a comparison between your new car and the car it's replacing, if applicable. Let's assume the total yearly mileage for your old car, Car B, is also 20,000. If Car B gets 20 mpg, the yearly fuel cost for Car B is $4,000, or $20,000 over five years.

4

Consider the price tag for Car A. Let's assume Car A has a price tag of $16,000. It would take six years for the car to pay for itself in gas savings.

How to Use the VIN Number for Value of a Used Car

It's always important to do your homework when you are looking to buy a used car. You don't want to pay more than you should for a car that has a long history of damage. You can use the unique VIN (vehicle identification number) to get a more detailed history of the car's makeup. Every car has a VIN, and since 1981 they have been organized into a 17 character system. Research the VIN number to learn about the true value of a used car.

Instructions

1

Go to Motoverse.com.

2

Enter in the VIN number into their search engine and press "Go." If the VIN is entered correctly, details such as engine type and the date of manufacture will be listed on the following page.

3

Compare the decoded VIN information from Motoverse with the information provided by the seller of the used car. The VIN doesn't lie, so the information should match (such as the car age).

4

Bring a mechanic to look over the car engine. If the parts in the used car are not the same as the ones listed by the VIN, then you know those parts have been replaced.

5

Order a car history report from online or at a used car shop (the VIN is needed). There are a number of different companies that offer this service and they usually require a fee for a full history.

6

Go to the Kelley Blue Book website (kbb.com) and search for the estimated value of your used car by clicking the "Year, Make & Model" link listed under "Used Cars."

7

Select the "Year, Make and Model" of your used car from the drop down menus and press "Go."

8

Specify the individual car details from the options listed including the condition (Excellent, Good, Fair or Poor). The following page will list what the estimated value is for that car.

9

Compare the information you gathered from Motoverse, your mechanic and the car history report to the estimated value report at Kelley Blue Book. Things like replaced parts, damage history and engine condition all affect the current value of a used car.

Late Model Vs. High Mileage Used Cars

When choosing a car, you may face a decision between a late-model vehicle and one with high mileage. It's usually easier to obtain a warranty on a late-model car, but high mileage vehicles are often less expensive per mile to operate if you do most of your own mechanical work.

Engine condition

Vehicles with high mileage often have lower engine compression than their late model counterparts. You notice the lack of power or a knock when accelerating. An oil additive with Teflon can be used to combat low compression. High mileage vehicles often require higher octane gas for the same reason.

Maintenance

High mileage cars usually require more maintenance than late model vehicles. You can expect to more frequently change the spark plugs, spark plug wires and fuel filter. You can expect to add anti-freeze fluid, brake fluid, and possibly transmission fluid more often if leaks develop. You'll need to adjust the alternator belt more frequently and check for bad electrical connections. Your idle speed may vary, and that requires adjustment or troubleshooting. Older parts require replacement.

Tires

High mileage cars often use tires much faster because tire alignment is costly and difficult. Rust and mud develop on wheel assembly components. The cost of repair can be more than the value of the car itself, so the alternative is to drive the vehicle, switch to less expensive tires, and replace them more often.

Ignition

High mileage cars are usually slower to crank than late model vehicles. The ignition system includes the battery, the starter, the ignition assembly itself, the distributor, the spark plug wires, the spark plugs and all of the wiring that connects the components. It sometimes includes an ignition module and a small starter solenoid. Cranking the car causes wear on the ignition system. Low engine compression and low fuel pressure may also be a problem for high mileage vehicles.

Overheating

According to Doug Newcomb of MSN Autos, keeping your engine cool is a critical part of saving money and extending the life of your car. Even replacing the cooling system components, having the system flushed by a professional, and changing the radiator fluid may an overheating problem. The problem is material buildup inside engine components, which raises the operating temperature. It's often a persistent problem, and during the summer months overheating can destroy the engine. This issue may not be apparent if you buy the vehicle during cooler weather.

How to Buy a New Car at the Dealer's Price

It is very difficult to buy a new car at the dealer's price because dealerships and their salespeople want to make some money. The Auto Advice car-buying website explains that dealers usually want to make a few hundred dollars in profit. However, you may be able to get a new car at the dealer's true cost if you are patient and willing to do some research and shop around. You may even have to wait for the right timing, but it can pay off in major savings.

Instructions

1

Calculate the dealer's true price, which is lower than the invoice cost. Websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds make invoice information readily available to car buyers. But there are other factors that affect what the dealer really pays to the manufacturer. Most manufacturers give money called a "holdback" to the dealer for each car, based on its price. There are also occasional factory-to-dealer incentives that are similar to rebates, but the money goes to the dealership instead of the car buyer. Holdbacks and dealer incentives can be found online on most of the same sites that list invoice information. Auto Advice states that incentives can change frequently throughout the year.

2

Choose a time of the year when the dealer might be most desperate for a sale. Dealers are in business to make a profit, like any other retailer. They are reluctant to sell a new car at the price they paid because, ostensibly, they don't make money on the deal. However, they may need to sell a few more cars at the end of a particular month or year to qualify for special manufacturer program bonuses. They may be willing to forgo a profit on an individual car to achieve the needed sales numbers and earn the bonus.

3

Ask a salesperson or manager to call you if he can give you the new car at the dealer's price in the future, even if he turns down your offer when you make it. You have no way of knowing when a sale is desperately needed, so you may not always show up at the dealer's doorstep at the right time for a bargain. The dealer's circumstances may change, and you might get the car at your preferred price if you are patient.

4

Consider less-than-premium vehicles. You are more likely to get a new car at the dealer's price if you choose an unpopular model. Dealers are more willing to forgo profit on slow-moving vehicles just to get them off the lot.

What Does a Dealer Pay for a New Car?

The world of car buying is fueled by mystery. Dealer participation bonuses, holdback and incentives can disguise the price a dealer paid for a new car. To determine what dealer cost is one must learn the many variables associated with new car pricing and profit.

The Invoice

A vehicle's invoice includes basic vehicle information and pricing. The invoice breaks down the base cost of a vehicle and its factory installed options or accessories. Invoices also include the total manufacturer's suggested retail price, or MSRP.

A dealer is charged the invoice price directly from the manufacturer, through their financing floor plan, when the car enters their inventory.

Holdback

Factory holdback is credited back to the dealer once a vehicle is sold. Holdback is not included in the vehicle invoice, and varies between manufacturers. The average holdback is around 3 percent, depending on the price of the vehicle. Manufacturers offer holdbacks to assist dealers with overhead costs, including sales commissions.

Dealer Cash

Dealer cash is a bonus payment issued to a dealer on particular vehicles. Not all vehicles have dealer cash incentives, and the size can range from $500 all the way up to $5,000. The amount of the dealer cash depends on the current inventory supply of the product.

Dealer cash is similar to customer cash, also known as a rebate. The difference is that manufacturers don't publicly post dealer incentives or require that the dealer give any of it to the customer. Its primary function is to assist the dealer in selling a particular model of vehicle, allowing dealers to increase profit or discount the vehicle more to sell it quickly.

Factoring in any additional dealer cash effectively lowers the true invoice price for the dealer.

Markup

Dealer markup is usually very low on new cars compared to other products; an average markup of less than 10 percent between invoice and MSRP is common. New vehicle mark-up has reduced in recent years primarily because of the amount information available on the Internet for consumers. The reduced markup on new cars has pushed manufacturers to increase dealer cash and other incentives, to help dealers remain profitable.

It is common for a dealer to sell a vehicle with little or no profit. Most dealers make a majority of their income from their finance and service departments. Dealers offering financing may mark up the interest rate or receive a commission on the financing of a new car, making up for the small profit made on the sale price. When a new car owner brings their vehicle in for warranty work, the manufacturer pays the dealer to fix it.

Expert Insight

Finding out the true invoice price for a vehicle can be difficult, but is feasible. To fget to the real bottom line, one needs to determine the actual invoice price, holdback and dealer incentive. Many on-line resources can offer assistance. While the actual prices given will never be 100-percent accurate, they can give you a close estimate.

How to Build a New Car the Way You Want it

If you are dissatisfied with the option packages or colors available at your nearby car dealership, there is no need to run all over the country to find what you're looking for. Manufacturers offer the option to build vehicles the way you want online. Once you determine the options you want, you can bring the information to your local dealer for assistance.

Instructions

Make your selections

1

Visit the manufacturer's Web site for the vehicle that interests you. Look for a tab titled "Build Your Own" or "Build a Vehicle."

2

Choose your model and body style. Some vehicles are available in multiple configurations, such as sedan, coupe, convertible or hatchback. Others are only available in one body-style configuration.

3

Choose your trim level. Review the basic add-ons for each trim level. If you want luxury features such as leather or a sunroof, you'll usually be required to step up to a higher trim level. Sometimes those types of options are bundled together as a package.

4

View and choose the available options for the trim level you selected. Some common available options are satellite radio, DVD player, navigation system and upgraded stereos. The price for the add-on will be listed.

5

Choose your exterior and interior colors. Some vehicles are available in limited interior-exterior configurations; others have several color options.

6

Review the items for accuracy, then print out the summary or specification sheet. Bring the sheet to your local dealer for the particular brand.

7

Ask the dealer if they have the exact vehicle you want in stock; if they don't, they may be able to locate one for you at a different dealership. If they can't locate one, any dealer can custom order the vehicle for you.

How to Obtain an Auto Title

The title to your automobile is a legal document with information about your vehicle. These titles are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. You will be required to obtain an automobile title if you purchase a new vehicle or lose your existing title. With the proper credentials, you can get a new title from your local DMV.

Instructions

1

Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles to see if they allow you to apply for a title online or through the mail. If they do not, you must visit the office.

2

Request an application for a title from the DMV. Fill in all required information.

3

Provide the DMV with information about the lien holder of your automobile, if applicable. Your lending agency will be the lien holder if you still owe money borrowed to purchase the vehicle. Present any available lien-related documents to the DMV.

4

Pay the title fee to the DMV office. Title fees vary from state to state and may also depend on whether you own the car outright or if there is a lien holder.

5

Wait for the application to be approved. Allow up to 30 days for the process to be completed. The new title will be mailed to you when it is available.

How to Negotiate for a Certified Used Car

A certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle includes a warranty backed by the manufacturer. Negotiating the price of one of these vehicles can prove tricky because of the high markup in price. An extended warranty purchased straight from the manufacturer rather than an aftermarket provider is the most expensive you can buy. The dealer also pays to add the warranty to the vehicle, which can increase costs up to or over $2,000 above regular retail pricing. Know where to locate the price differences and which to negotiate from.

Instructions

1

Go to Kelley Blue Book's website. Kelley Blue Book offers values on certified pre-owned cars, which allows you to see the difference between regular and certified retail values. Input your vehicle's year, make and model from the used car menu.

2

Choose "Certified Pre-Owned Value" from the values list. Select the trim level for the car you want pricing for. Read over the options carefully on the proceeding page and pick any additional options that the vehicle has---add the correct vehicle mileage for accurate pricing.

3

Read the price results, which are shown only for the certified pre-owned vehicle. From the lefthand side menu, change your value to "Suggested Retail Value" to determine the price increase for the warranty. Choose "Trade-in Value" from the menu to determine what the dealership probably owns the car for.

4

Conclude a fair offer now that you know all pricing. It is fair to offer $1,000 over the trade-in value and $1,500 for the warranty, as the dealer probably paid more than $1,000 to have the car certified. Print out all of the values from the Kelley Blue Book website for negotiations and be ready to buy if your price is met.

5

Tell the dealer how much you'd like to pay over the trade-in value, which is also known as the wholesale value and is what dealers, auctions and wholesalers base pricing on. Tell the representative how much you'd like to pay for the warranty and use the printout as the basis for your offer. Let the dealer know that you are ready to purchase immediately.

6

Wait while the representative or manager looks into your pricing. The dealer may own the car for more money than the trade-in value before the warranty was added, as the car market fluctuates and sometimes wholesale values change. If you are way off in values, the dealer should show you what he owns the vehicle for.

7

Take the deal if your pricing is accepted. If not, continue negotiating until you can achieve a price that you're happy with. The dealer should be able to back up his own offer if he turns yours down, either by showing you what he owns the vehicle for or by showing you a different value for trade-in figures, such as the NADA Guide. If he shows you a different value, make your offer based off that price.

8

Continue negotiating and be friendly while doing so. Explain that with your figures, you believe you are providing at least $1,000 in profit for the car sale. If the dealer is stubborn or owns the car for too much money, keep shopping.

How To Find Used Cars in the State of Maine

Maine has a few unique, and not so unique, resources for finding used cars. Whatever the case, if you look in the right places, you are guaranteed to find a decent selection.

Instructions

1

Uncle Henry's has been the leading local used cars publication for years, but now you can access their great deals online and browse their expansive collection of used cars available from dealers and private parties. Note: Uncle Henry's is a great source for all used merchandise, not just cars.

2

Craigslist of Maine -- a free classified ad site -- will show you up-to-the-minute used cars listed by local Mainers, dealers and private parties. Select "Cars and Trucks" and then you can narrow your search by using the drop-down menu next to the search bar.

3

Maine Today offers a section for used cars. These listings cover the entire state. Limiting search criteria is difficult with Maine Today, but it's still worth viewing as many unique vehicles are sold through the site.

How to Buy a Car at a Junkyard

Junkyards can be a treasure chest if you are rebuilding a car or looking for a cheap car or car parts. The cars found in a junkyard will often be severely damaged, but if you know how to repair a vehicle and don't care about putting in many hours fixing up the car, it can save you a lot of money. A car can easily be bought at a junkyard by following a few simple steps.

Instructions

1

Find a junkyard in your area. To purchase a car at a junkyard you must first find a junkyard in your area that sells to the public. This can be done easily by looking in your local phone book or in the online version of the phone book. Call the junkyard you found and make sure they sell to the public.

2

Search the junkyard for a car you would like to purchase. You will most likely want to bring friends to help you find and haul away the car you have found. If you do not know much about repairing cars, also bring a trusted mechanic to help you decide which cars in the junkyard would be best for rebuilding and restoring.

3

Negotiate a price at the junkyard. If you want to buy a car from a junkyard you will probably be able to negotiate the price of the car with the person who runs the junkyard. Ask them how much they are willing to sell for and negotiate the price until you feel it is fair.

How to Locate a Mini Cooper Dealer

The Mini Cooper is a small car manufactured by BMW that evokes memories of the original Austin Mini first introduced in 1959. Although BMW is a German car company, new Minis are built at a BMW plant in England, which is where the first Minis originated. The latest version of the Mini was introduced in 2001 and has continued almost unchanged as of 2010. The Mini Cooper comes in hardtop coupe, convertible and Clubman wagon body styles. Although the "new" Mini looks a lot like the original, it is about 1 foot wider and 2 feet longer than the first version. Minis are available with a long options list, including air-conditioning, glass sunroof and heated front seats.

Instructions

1

Go to the MiniUSA website.

2

Position your mouse pointer over the word "SHOP" in the center of the top of your computer screen. Note that a pop-up window will appear.

3

Click on the first item listed in the pop-up menu, which is "Find a Mini Dealer."

4

Locate the black dot on the dealer locator map that is closest to your desired location. Click on the dot.

5

Click on the desired Mini dealer location, if more than one is available on the more detailed map.

How to Calculate Taxes on a Car

Unless you live in a state that does not charge sales tax on car purchases, such as Delaware or Montana, you're going to have to calculate the sales tax you'll pay on your new vehicle. Because of the high price tag of many cars, this sales tax cost is often significant. How you calculate your sales tax depends on whether you've chosen to buy or lease.

Instructions

Buy

1

Negotiate your car purchase with the seller until you agree on the final sales price. This may be different from the MSRP or sticker price. For this example, assume you've negotiated to buy the car for $7,000.

2

Multiply that final figure by the state's sales tax percentage (seven percent for this example, which equals $490).

3

Pay the sales tax with your purchase ($7,490 in this example) if it's a cash transaction. Give the dealer the extra money for sales tax at closing, along with any additional money for a down payment if you're getting a loan for the vehicle. You can also allow the dealer to build the sales tax figure into your loan.

Lease

4

Determine the monthly lease payment. Ask the salesperson for an estimate of the base payment amount if you're still in the browsing stage of leasing a new car. Often the dealer will advertise this monthly payment right on the car, which doesn't include taxes yet. Assume a lease payment of $200 per month for this example.

5

Determine the sales tax percentage in the state where you're purchasing the car. For this example, assume the state's rate is seven percent.

6

Multiply the sales tax percentage by the monthly lease payment. In this case, the sales tax is $14 per month. Add this sales tax figure to the monthly payment. States use this method for leases so you're only charged on the amount of the vehicle you're using during the lease (called the depreciation). The downside is you have to pay tax on the finance charges as well.

How to Buy a High Mileage Truck

The best tool for purchasing a vehicle is to use the vehicle's flaws to your advantage. The most difficult part is to make sure that you're not buying a vehicle that will leave you stranded or unable to get the job done. A high mileage truck is no exception to this rule. Make sure the only thing wrong with the truck is that it does have high miles. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Have an auto mechanic inspect the truck before you decide on your purchase.

Instructions

1

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Crawl underneath and check out the undercarriage. Look for leaks of any kind. Ask questions about anything unusual underneath the vehicle. Feel the hoses and components underneath for stability. If they feel loose, then there might be a future repair bill to pay.

2

Open the hood and check the fluid levels. Use a clean rag to wipe off the dipstick. When checking the oil, look for water on the dipstick. Take the cap off the radiator and look for any signs of rust where the coolant is. The coolant must be bright green. Examine the battery cables for corrosion. Inspect the belts to make sure there are no signs of wear or fraying. You will find defects, but it is important they will not hinder the operation of the truck.

3

Crank the truck and listen carefully. You should not hear any type of knocking or clanging as the motor runs. Observe under the hood for any type of leaking. Watch the components as they work together with the rest of the vehicle. Watch the pulleys as they move the belt. Watch for any hesitation in the belt movement. This could be a sign of a component about to go bad or lock up.

4

Drive the vehicle for a few minutes. Enable every gear the truck offers. Listen for the sound of the turbo engaging (if equipped). Brake frequently to test the consistency of the braking operation. When you shut the truck down, re-inspect the fluids and belts to see if anything leaked out or if there is anything about to break or lock-up.

5

Insist on knowing where the truck was operated at. Listen to the owner as he explains what the truck was used for and where the truck has been. A truck sitting or being operated near coastal areas or in heavy northern winters will have more exposure to salt. Salt can lead to premature rusting of the body. A truck operated in high traffic cities will have a lot more wear and tear than if it was used over the road or in rural areas.

6

Request maintenance records. The life of the truck is dependent on the care it has received. If you look to keep this truck running for a long time to come, you will need to know how frequent the oil changes were and when the system was tuned-up. Ask if the truck is running a special oil for high mileage motors or if the care it receives is more frequent now, that the truck is advancing in miles and years.

7

Research the vehicle online to learn how much a vehicle with high mileage should be sold for. Investigate the wholesale and retail value and find a reasonable middle of the road price to offer the seller. The truck may have many miles left on it, but the fact that the miles are high does depreciate the vehicle's worth greatly. Use the flaws to your advantage. The seller may knock some dollars off the price if a window is broken or if there is an errant scratch or dent on the body.

How to Check the Year and Model of a Car

The most accurate way to check the year and model of any vehicle is to read the title or decode the vehicle identification number. This standardized number has been used in the automotive industry since 1981 to identify a variety of information including the model and year of a vehicle. Websites exist that can decode the VIN and provide a history of the car. The VIN can be found on the title of the vehicle and on the vehicle itself. Check for the VIN on the front driver side door post, the dashboard, in the trunk or on the quarter panels.

Instructions

1

Check the title of the vehicle. The title will have the make, model and year of manufacture of the vehicle. Proceed to the next step if the title is not available.

2

Locate the VIN and write it down. Go to the website website govdmvrecords.com. Enter the VIN in the search box and indicate the type of search. Hit "Enter." Proceed to the next step if the VIN is not a standard 17-digit VIN.

3

Call a local dealer. If the VIN is less than 17 characters, the vehicle was made prior to 1980 and a dealer will be able to give additional details.

Where to Find Used Cars From a Private Party

When evaluating where to purchase your car, consider what you are looking for in a vehicle before deciding where and what to search. Ask the seller questions, and take the car for a test drive. If you notice any sort of suspicious behavior from the seller, don't take chances, just walk away. It's better to lose out on a good deal than it is to risk getting ripped off.

Craigslist

Craigslist has a great selection of local cars for sale, but there are quite a few drawbacks with the site. Look out for scammers. Craigslist is notorious for providing scammers with victims, and high-dollar items like homes and cars are highly susceptible to rip-off artists. Don't agree to buy a car on Craigslist without first taking a test drive. Also, don't bring your cash on the first test drive so you won't be victimized. It's always a good idea to bring along someone so they can help ask questions and protect you from getting cheated.

eBay

eBay has an amazing selection of used cars available throughout the country. Their search tools provide ample ways to find the car you want at the price you want to spend. Many worry about getting scammed on eBay, but they offer good protection plans to help prevent fraud.

The real problem with eBay is that you will rarely get to test drive the car, unless you want to travel to where it is located. This may mean you could get a running car for a good price and just hate the way it drives once you get it. It is usually best to limit eBay purchases to areas you are willing to travel during the duration of the auction.

AutoTrader

AutoTrader has a number of local publications based around specific used car needs. Classic Car Trader offers vintage car buyers and sellers a specialized arena for purchases. TruckTrader offers large trucks and passenger trucks. AutoTrader operates as a catchall, but mostly features passenger cars. Visit the company's website, AutoTrader.com to find vehicles all over the country.

Sellers through AutoTrader may be private parties or dealerships, so be sure you read the entire description of any car you like if you're looking to work only with private sellers.

Generally, there are less scammers listing vehicles through the Trader publications and websites, as buyers and sellers here are expected to meet in person to complete the transaction, but you still need to look out for lemons. Again, if you don't know about cars, bring a friend or relative who does.

Local Paper

Just about every paper in the nation has a classified section and most contain a number of available vehicles in your area. In recent years, Craigslist's free classified listings have pulled a lot of listings away from the papers, so you are likely to find a limited selection of cars here. Just like AutoTrader, you may run into dealerships or lemons, so keep an eye out while looking for cars here.

Word of Mouth

Sometimes the best way to get a used car from a private party is by spreading the word. Tell your friends and family, and mention it on your social networking profiles. Sometimes you may even get an even better deal when the seller is someone you know personally. Best of all, you almost always can feel more assured you are not buying a lemon when you buy from someone you already trust.

How to Import a Ford Fiesta Diesel

Due to differences in pricing, you may find it beneficial to import a new car from overseas instead of buying one domestically. Although importing a Ford Fiesta Diesel is little different from importing any car into the United States, care should be taken when abiding by import and export rules. Therefore, hiring the services of a registered importer will free you from any necessary bureaucratic paperwork and procedures, and will make your experience of buying a car from overseas relatively hassle free.

Instructions

1

Check to see if the Ford Fiesta Diesel is on the list of vehicles that are eligible for import. A list of such vehicles is published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (see References). As of September 2010, the Ford Fiesta Diesel is eligible, however conditions may change.

2

Obtain the services of a registered importer for your vehicle. A registered importer will arrange for shipment, carry out all necessary paperwork, inspections, pay customs tax (currently 2.5 percent of the present value of the car), and will carry out any modifications necessary for your vehicle to make it road legal. You will purchase your car through the importer, who will have all the necessary contacts for Ford Fiesta dealers overseas.

3

Pay for the vehicle and arrange for shipment to your home. The importer can either transport the vehicle to its offices for you to pick up or arrange transportation to your residence for an extra fee. The price of the vehicle and all services conducted by the registered importer will be invoiced to you as one payment.