How To Buy A Used Car From A Dealer

By: Gabrielle Talley

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learn how to buy a used car from a dealer by setting limits before browsing for cars. Plan your budget before visiting the dealer, since many have used cars priced above the average prices. If you need financing, research rates before going with dealer financing.

Choose a car type. Research the available used cars, determining your needs and research. Research the abilities and ratings for a car using the Edmunds Guide and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Check consumer reviews for a thorough testing evaluation for narrowing down car choice.
Plan your budget. How to buy a used car from a dealer begins with budget planning. Plan the total amount you want to spend on the car before going to the dealership. Research current price ranges and make sure the car you want fits the price range for your budget.
Look for cars. Visit or shop online at local dealerships. Many dealerships offer their current selection of cars online for consumers to check out.
Testdrive the car. If you find one in the right price range and with the right features, test drive the car. Be sure to check the outside of the car for any damage first. Listen for any noises while driving the vehicle. Check all of the features including the air conditioning, heating, brakes, horn, lights, cruise control, stereo, and power windows before test driving the car.
Check the VIN number. Write down the VIN number from the dashboard of the car and research the car’s history. You can do this by purchasing a report on Car Fax. Take the VIN number to the local Department of Motor Vehicles and order a report on the vehicle. You can find out past owners for the car and contact them if you have questions.
Hire a mechanic. The dealer will probably tell you that the car has already passed their department’s inspection. Hire a mechanic to run a double check on their diagnostic findings. Mechanics are available for hire to meet you at the dealership and run the test on the car.
Check the warranty. Check with the dealer about a warranty. Dealers may have limited warranties available for cars, certified car warranties, and as-is cars for sale. If the car passed the mechanics’ testing, see if you can get some kind of warranty on the car before making an offer.
Make the offer. Check the Kelly blue book price compared to the dealer’s price. Come to an agreement on the offer before purchase.
Purchase the vehicle. If you already have financing, check with the financing department to see if they offer a better rate. Be sure to shop around when checking rates. If you are paying in full at the time of purchase, complete all the paperwork and sign the title.