Is it good to buy an used car through dealers or through private people or small dealers...?

Question

I have tried a lot of deals through craigslist, sulekha and through small dealers. not a deal is worth for the quality of car. i am looking for an used car, 2000 in a good comfortable condition for around $5000. but i couldn't. sub dealers who get cars through dealer auction, i checked some of them .. they are not good deals at all.. am really tired. please make your recommendations for a comfortable low maintainence car, good resale car, 2000 with decent looks ... what budget should I keep in mind and whom should I be contacting, dealers? or continue to check private posts in craigslist and sulekha?

am located in Schaumburg, Chicago - US

Answer 1

You should get a honda Civic and maybe raise the amount you're willing to pay a little bit more. You should look through private posts and also check the classifieds in the new york times or local newspapers. Private people are better because they ask for less than car dealers and some don't have any idea what their car is really worth

Answer 2

I would check local newspapers and also while driving around you may spot one sitting in someones yard. They might allow you to take it for a test drive and also be willing to come down on the price a little if you ask them.  I would also ask a private seller why they are selling the car and if they are the original owner. I wouldn't bother with the other places. Good luck.

Answer 3

You can get a good deal on a used car from a public auction for way less than $10,000. There's even a good chance that you can get something you like for less than $5,000. Just be sure to give the car a full inspection before bidding on it because they are sold in as-is condition. Or better yet, just take a mechanic with you. In the end you will still save hundreds less than what you would've paid elsewhere.

Answer 4

MSNBC had a news story on where is the best places to buy used cars. The used car dealers were on the BOTTOM of the list. They are pros at negotiations (and you and I are rank amateurs), they are pros at hiding problems on their cars, etc.

The private sales (newspaper, etc.) were the best places. The seller will not tell you all the problems, but they don't know how to hide them.

And a private seller are at MOST they are equal in negotiation skills to you and me.

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My 94 Civic can get 41 MPG (and I was doing 72 for the mileage test - so I can do even better at 55). The engine + tranny + suspension runs like new. It ain't no beauty but it is rock solid. If I had to sell it, I would not get more than few thousand dollars. This is the kind of car you want to look for.

Just take your time, as good old used cars are cheap but hard to come by.

Good Luck...