First time used car buyer?

Question

I am going to buy a used car (Civic). This is the first car I am going to buy here. Can someone give some tips on what should be considered before making a deal?

Answer 1

Take it to your mechanic or someone you know who knows about cars. Look under the car for different color paint if you see a color other than the one that's on the car it could be a good indication that the car may have been in  a wreck. Go to car facts put in the Vin # of the car you are wanting to purchase, it can tell you the history of the car... I think they charge a little to use the sight but it would be worth it to know what your getting yourself into.....  Check out the Kelly blue book on line see if what your paying for the car is fair market value.

Answer 2

honestly, i am not fan of buying used car because you never know how it was used and what they have been through, unless you the the history of the car personally.  Let's say you buy from a close friend that you know then it would be ok to buy.

I rather save up more money and buy smaller new car.

from what i have seen, i dont see many people happy with used-cars

But if you insist buying a used car, first check the service record and see how it has been serviced.  It would be better if the previous owner has service record of is car and would be also good if it has been servicing in one shop.  

check the mileage and see if all the required changing parts have been changed if not you will be ending up changing them all after which probably will cost you.

test drive it, and make sure you do not go soft with it, try to push the car.  see how engine sound, try to rev it up and see how smooth the engine is rev till 5-6ooorpm.  

check the breaks too and pay attention to rattles (suspension and shocks) around if there are any coz they get to be annoying.

good luck

Answer 3

I guess you should also check insurance quotes for the car before buying one, for example here: http://autoinsurance.noneto.com

Answer 4

Go to Kelly Blue Book's website (www.kbb.com) there you can enter the information about the car and it will tell you the price range. Also visit www.carfax.com and buy the membership. This web site will tell you the complete history of the car including miles owners and damage among many others. Just enter the VIN number of the car and it will give you all of the info you will need.

Answer 5

http://www.edmunds.com/

The best site out there.

Answer 6

First off the warranty which is very important. See just what it covers and for how long if your buying it from a dealer. If your going to buy it private, remember that Its buyer beware because you take it as is. If that be the case have it checked out by a good mechanic before giving your money over to anybody.