OK, so you're in the market for a used car. You start looking in the classified ads and find several models in your price range that interest you. The next step is to decide which cars are worth checking out in person.
We suggest the shopping process begin on the phone. Below, you'll find a series of questions and a fact sheet designed to help you pre-sort the "possibles" from the "forgetaboutits."
After you've confirmed the description and content of the vehicle (see sample form on page 19), be sure to ask the following questions.
1. Tell me about the condition of the car.
Phrasing the "question" this way should motivate the seller to provide more information. Don't waste your time with a seller who tells you that it "runs good." This usually means that the car has problems and that even he or she can't think of anything good to say about it.
2. Are you a used car dealer?
Sometimes used car dealers will put ads in the classifieds and you'll want to know this before going any further. They could be selling a lemon or a car without a title or a car that won't pass inspection or one that they would prefer not to have associated with the car lot. This is called "curbing." Avoid these people.
3. Are you the original owner of the car?
If the answer to question 2 is "no," then ask how long they have owned the car. Obviously, it's best to buy a used car from the original owner if only because you'll have a better chance of determining its maintenance and repair history.
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