Used Cars

[abhijit]

Hi Folks,
I am in the US on an assignment and need to buy a car to get around.

How reliable are the kelley book values? Does anyone consult a carfax report before buying? What are the steps that I need to take?

I am asking all these questions as I have never purchased a used car.

Cheers,
Abhijit

[dglienna]

Look in the paper. You can take it to a garage and pay them to look it over, but if you know cars, make your decision. Then, you should offer 1/2 the amount.

The owner will take it if you offer cash, or might negotiate up to 75% of the asking price, if you are paying cash.

You will still be saving 50% over the price of a dealer, though.

[Pc_Madness]

Hi Folks,
I am in the US on an assignment and need to buy a car to get around.

Good luck on your assignment sir!

[abhijit]

Look in the paper. You can take it to a garage and pay them to look it over, but if you know cars, make your decision. Then, you should offer 1/2 the amount.

The owner will take it if you offer cash, or might negotiate up to 75% of the asking price, if you are paying cash.

You will still be saving 50% over the price of a dealer, though.

One thing I learned quickly is that the dealers are all out to con me.
There was a ford dealer who is trying to sell me an 94 Escort for 4191 dollars. (includes liability insurance for 6 months). I took the car for a drive and it didn't go very well uphill. So it turned me off. Next appointment is with a 1993 Toyota Camry. Looking in the paper seems like a good idea. So far I have been searching on the Internet.

[|2eM!x]

We just bought a 3 year old car for 4k and its great..I think your getting ripped off for that much money.(from a dealer too)

To make sure you dont get ripped off..bring a friend or coworker to help you..

[abhijit]

Did you run a VIN report on it? I am considering getting a carfax or autocheck membership. Everyone tells me that you can get that report from some middle-man for a dollar or two. I haven't met anyone offering that service yet. So best get the membership on my own. Hopefully I won't have too many worries after that.

[dglienna]

I bought a car for $50 and it lasted me 4 years! Make them an offer. If they accept it, buy it. If they don't, then it might be worth more, so you'd have to consider it. It's just a car. You will have saved enough to buy 2 cars, so save your money for the next one.