Here are some tips on buying a used car:
Shop Around
You can shop at used car dealerships, local online or print classifieds and used car websites. If you shop online, you have the benefit of browsing through the listings and finding exactly what you want. On the other hand, you may find the perfect car in a location that's too far away. Shopping in your local community will allow you to find a car nearby and see it in person. The best of both worlds is a used car website that will allow you to browse through listings within a certain geographical area. These sites allow used car buyers to find the right car for them quickly and easily.
Inspect the Car
Before you buy, you need to thoroughly inspect the car (or hire a mechanic to do so), take it for a test drive and get a vehicle history report from a service like Carfax.com. With the inspection and the report, you'll be able to tell if the car is worth buying. Thanks to vehicle history reports, many negatives of buying a used car have been eliminated. Unscrupulous sellers can't get away with passing off a car with previous flood damage or a faulty radiator. Read through the vehicle history report and, if you see anything suspicious, ask the seller about it.
Read the Fine Print
Once you've found the right car, you need to read all of the paperwork carefully. Some dealers will try to mix in an "as is" statement with the other paperwork. Don't sign anything before you read it. If you decline the "as is" statement, you have up to 30 days to get the car inspected to make sure that the car is in good working order. This rule should apply to private party sellers as well.
As you can see, buying a used car is a good move as long as you prepare yourself. Make sure to investigate the car thoroughly before buying, and read all of the paperwork you're asked to sign. If you do your research, buying a used car can be a great experience.
 | Smart negotiating tips for used car buying can keep you from getting hoodwinked by a slick used-car salesman. Do your research, and you have a better shot at a fair price. |
 | Knowing the Cash for Clunkers requirements can be useful, even though the program has ended. The program might start up again, and you should be ready if you want to make a trade. |
 | A tax credit for a new car purchase was part of the 2009 stimulus package. However, not all cars qualify, and the tax break will vary depending on where you live. |
Knowing how to buy a car before you start negotiations can save a lot of money. |
Your car will be considerably cheaper overall if you get the best car loan deal possible. Since very few people have that much cash handy, most folks rely on getting a car loan in order to pay for their new (or used) car. |
