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...