How to find a reliable used car, avoid common pitfall and get fair deal.

Whether you buy from a dealership or an individual, buying a reliable used car requires extra caution. Use these tips to research your options, protect yourself from common sales tactics and stay within your budget.

Secure financing first—and keep your budget to yourself

Getting pre-approved for your car loan allows you to shop with the confidence, knowing you’re choosing a car you can afford.

Don’t disclose your budget to a seller. Only discuss the sales price. It may be possible to buy a used car for less than your pre-approved amount.

Research vehicles

Used car buyers have two areas of research to cover. First, determine what type of car will suit your needs and budget. Then, research the individual vehicles for sale.

When shopping for a vehicle online, take a screenshot or save a PDF of the listings for cars you intend to test-drive. Saving the ads can help protect against sellers who try to sell a vehicle for more than the advertised price.

To determine a vehicle’s fair market value, check sites like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds and J.D. Power/NADA.

Check the vehicle history

Online tools such as CARFAX and AutoCheck provide valuable information about a car’s history. They report things such as if the car was involved in an accident, totaled by an insurance company or used for commercial use. You’ll need the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) to get a history report.

Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle

A vehicle history report only tells part of the story. An independent mechanic can identify mechanical problems. It’s worth paying for an inspection even if the vehicle has been certified and is being sold by a dealer that offers a used-car warranty, according the Michigan Consumer Protection Team.

Take a test drive

Even if you have limited automotive knowledge, a test drive can tell you a lot about a car. Learn how to make the most of a test drive here.

Questions to ask the seller

Learn as much as you can from the vehicle’s owner. Ask:

• Do you have records showing regular maintenance?
• Were you the vehicle’s only owner?
• Was the vehicle used to tow heavy objects?
• Was the vehicle in an accident or incur damage?
• Was the car used for commercial activity?
• Why are you selling?

Know when to walk away

Thanks to your research, you should have a good idea of the car’s fair market value. Make an offer based on that value. If the seller wants more, be prepared to walk away.

Go at your own pace

Take your time, and don’t allow anyone to pressure you into making a purchase before you’re ready. Unless a seller has a written return policy that’s part of the sales contract, used car sales are final.

Also, Michigan’s Lemon Law does not apply to used vehicles unless the vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s express warranty and you report the defect within one year of delivery to the original buyer. In practice, the Lemon Law will apply to very few used cars.

When you’re ready to buy a used car

When you’re ready to buy a used car and need financing, turn to Consumers for an auto loan with a competitive rate.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications and collateral conditions.