Auto Used Cars for Sale

The Used Car

Because new cars are expensive, most people find themselves in the

market for a used vehicle when they need wheels. And buying a used car

isn't easy; you want to get the best car you can for the best deal

you can. Read on to find out how you can handle your used car purchase.

USED CAR DEALER

If you go to a dealer for a used car, look for a "Buyers Guide" sticker on the window of each car. The Buyers Guide, required by the Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule, gives you important information and suggestions to consider. The Buyers Guide tells you:

Whether the vehicle comes with a warranty and, if so, what specific protection the dealer will provide;
Whether the vehicle comes with no warranty ("as is") or with implied warranties only;
That you should ask to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy;
That you should get all promises in writing; and
What some of the major problems are that may occur in any car.

The Used Car Rule requires dealers to post the Buyers Guide on all used vehicles, including automobiles, light-duty vans, and light-duty trucks. "Demonstrator" cars also must have Buyers Guides. But Buyers Guides do not have to be posted on motorcycles and most recreational vehicles. Individuals selling fewer than six cars a year are not required to post Buyers Guides.

Whenever you purchase a used car from a dealer, you should receive the original or an identical copy of the Buyers Guide that appeared in the window of the vehicle you bought. The Buyers Guide must reflect any changes in warranty coverage that you may have negotiated with the dealer. It also becomes a part of your sales contract and overrides any contrary provisions that may be in that contract.

PRIVATE PARTY

Many cars are available privately, such as through classified ads in a newspaper. If you are shopping for a car from an individual, you should understand several differences between sales made by individuals and by dealers.

Private sellers generally are not covered by the Used Car Rule and therefore, do not have to use the Buyers Guide. However, you still can follow the Guide's suggestions. For example, you can refer to the list of potential problems displayed on the back of the Buyers Guide shown in this brochure. In addition, ask the seller whether you may have the vehicle inspected by your own mechanic and whether you may take it on a test drive.
Private sales usually are not covered by the "implied warranties" of state law. So, a private sale probably will be on an "as is" basis, unless your contract with the seller specifically provides otherwise. If you have a written contract, the seller must live up to the promises stated in the contract. Depending on its age, the car also may be covered by a manufacturer's warranty or a separately purchased service contract. However, warranties and service contracts may not be transferable, or there may be limitations or costs for a transfer. Before you purchase the car, ask the seller to let you examine any warranty or service contract on the vehicle.
Many states require that dealers, but not individuals, ensure that their vehicles will pass state inspection or carry a minimum warranty before they offer them for sale. Ask your state's attorney general's office or a local consumer protection office about the requirements on individuals and on dealers in your state.
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