Used Car - Dealer or Private Seller?

Question

What are the pro’s and con’s in buying a used car from a dealer and a private seller? As I search the classified ads by private sellers online, I have come across numerous scams. I’m wondering if I’m better off just going to the dealership to buy a used car. I don’t have a lot of money to work with ($5K) and really don’t want monthly payments, but it looks like I may have no other option.

Answer 1

A private seller is your best option.  Most car sales people are dishonest and will tell you anything just to get you to buy the overpriced vehicle that is on the dealer lot.  When dealing with a private seller, make sure to meet the person at his/her residence and ask to see his/her ID and compare it to who is listed on the title.  Also be sure that the car's serial number (VIN#) matches what is listed on the title.  $5,000 should get you a nice car from a private seller.  I recently purchased a 2002 Taurus wagon in perfect condition for under $5,000.  You can also find recent model Mazda Proteges and Nissan Sentras for around $5,000.

Answer 2

I suggest going with a dealer.

They are more easily held accountable if there is a problem later, and they should have already done a basic check out of the vehicle.

Answer 3

well a dealer you can do monthly payments and i doubt you will be able to buy a car with 5k. dealers (if its a good dependable one) they would have inspected the vehicle and should have done a car fax on the vehicle. which tells you about the vehicle any accidents or any work done on it. thje bad thing is is that dealers sell the cars for a lot more then they are worth so they can make money off of it. with a private party you will most likely buy it for what its worth but you have to have all of the money up front unless of course you go through a bank and get a loan then you can make payments to them. with a private party once its in your name its yours and you cant do anything about it if theres something wrong with the car mechanically. i would go with a dealer! but dont go to a hole in the wall dealer go to a respectable one taht has been around a long time good luck