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Buying a used car is a bit trickier than
buying a new car although you can follow most of the same
guidelines for both.
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How To Purchase A Used
Car
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by: Tim
Henry
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Buying a used
car is a bit trickier than buying a new car
although you can follow most of the same
guidelines for both.
First, know what car you have in mind. Research the
car. There is a wealth of information online. Check
the car manufacturers web site, consumer reports
and the edmunds.com. web site. Know the approximate
value of the car before you head out to the dealer.
Go to your bank or to your credit union before you
go shopping and see how much money they'll be able
to lend you on a used car. This way you'll have a
much better idea what you can realistically
spend.
Realize that there are many different models of the
same car. You may not find exactly the car with all
the extras you want, or the exact color, but you
may find something close that is a great deal.
Most dealers are upright and honest when selling
used cars. They offer limited warranties with them.
In the case of luxury end cars a lot of them still
have warranties in effect when you purchase
them.
If you are buying from a private seller ask to see
service records. Go online and order a carfax car
history report. Find out if the car will be sold
"as is" or already state inspected. When you are
serious about a used car make sure that you have
time to take the car to your mechanic for him to
give the car the once over, especially if it's
being sold "as is". You don't need to find out
after the fact that it needs many more repairs than
you thought. You can't tell just by a visual
inspection.
The cosmetics of the car are an important factor in
determining it's value. Cars are generally rated as
being in good, fair or excellent condition.
However, especially when purchasing from a private
seller you'll find that these ratings vary,
sometimes greatly.
Whatever you do, don't let anyone pressure you into
making a quick decision, especially a private
seller. If you hear something like "I already have
someone else who's willing to give me a down
payment" let the car go. Stick to your guns, and
your budget. If you don't get this car it wasn't
meant to be and there will always be another, and
better one.
About the author:
This article courtesy of http://www.porsche-owners-guide.com
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