Things to Consider before Buying Used Car

Each year more than 15 million used cars are sold. If you have the desire of buying a used car:

1. Think all overheads of the vehicle you have in mind, as well as purchase price, insurance costs, loan costs, if you need a loan. Most importantly is the repair record of the car. Each year, Consumer Reports magazine prints a "frequency-of-repair" analysis that points out trouble spots for almost all makes and models of used cars. In addition, the magazine also contains a satisfaction poll of readers "Would you buy that car again?" as well as a list of dependable used cars in different price ranges.

2. Is the car enclosed by any warranty? If you purchase a used car from a dealer, there will be a "Buyer's Guide" label, mandatory by federal law in the window of the car. It will tell you whether or not the car has assurance and if it does, what the warranty covers - about 50 percent of used cars sold through new-car dealerships have some warranty coverage. When buying through a private seller, you’ll have to ask if the vehicle is still covered by warranty or service contract. Even if a warranty or service contract exists, it may be transferable or there may be limitations or costs for a transfer.

3. Personally give the car a comprehensive inspection, inside and out. If you don't trust yourself to do a good job, take along a friend who is familiar. Take the car on a test drive. And, whether talking with a dealer, ask to see any existing paperwork on the car's history - insurance accident reports, repair bills, and maintenance receipts. Even if you are contented with the car, take it to a reputable mechanic to have it checked out.

4. Be familiar with the fair price of the car. This is easy to find out form many annual used car books or websites that publish present car values. Consumer Reports Publication has a 'used car cost service' that will give you quotes over the line.

5. If you are buying from a private seller, be sure the man selling you the car is the registered proprietor.

6. To keep away from buying a stolen car, make sure the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the car's title is the same as the VIN On the car's dashboard. If you have any doubts, ask your local police department to do a stolen-car check.