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8/1/2008

Fort Worth, TX – – Discouraged by the prices of new cars, more and more consumers are considering the purchase of a used car. Purchasing a used car has certain indisputable advantages such as lower cost and slower depreciation. It also carries with it certain possible disadvantages such as mechanical problems, warranty limitations, or misrepresented condition.

There are a number of possible sources for a used car in addition to regular used car dealers. New car dealers and auto rental agencies also sell used cars. Financial institutions will sometimes sell repossessed cars at good prices. Private owners customarily sell their cars through newspaper ads or other local methods of advertising.

Before making a commitment, check the car for signs of rust, previous accidents, or possible tampering with the odometer. Test drive the car before making any decision. It is also a good idea to have a reliable mechanic check out the vehicle before purchase. If the current owner refuses to let you test drive the vehicle or have it inspected, do not purchase the car. Get the car’s VIN and check it out with a vehicle-background reporting company. Be sure to make provisions for adequate insurance. Texas law requires car owners to have liability insurance; if a car is financed, the financier may require collision insurance to cover the balance owed on the car. The Federal Trade Commission requires all sellers of used cars—except private owners—to place a large "Buyers Guide" sticker in every vehicle offered for sale; this sticker contains information about what warranty coverage—if any—the seller will provide. Private sellers generally do not have to use the Buyers Guide; private sales will usually be on an "as is" basis and do not usually involve "implied warranties." For a non-private sale of a used car, check with the BBB for a reliability report.