Some Tips for Buying a Quality Used Car and Not a Lemon

When it comes time to trade in the old, once-reliable car, the first hope is to be able to afford something new. Given gas prices and the fluctuating economy, it may not be possible for everybody to get what they want. If you have considered browsing for a pre-owned car, however, you may have an easier time finding something that offers great gas mileage and is significantly newer than your current ride. It's important to know, too, that there are ways to look for a quality used car without fear of buying a clunker. You just need to know what to look for and where to go to find the best deal.

That said, if you're looking for a solid used car to buy, keep the following in mind:

1) Make sure the car you're interested in buying has been inspected, and that you have the paperwork to prove it. This especially holds true if you are not shopping a lot but looking at ads and "for sale by owner" models. At any dealership you can ask for a history and receive it, but buying directly from the owner presents a different story. Don't sign anything until you know everything about that car.

2) Look for a warranty. You can still buy a pre-owned vehicle with a warranty, and it's highly recommended as opposed to buying an "as-is" car that could cost you thousands in repairs. Ask about available warranties when you shop.

3) Research the model you want to buy. If you are looking at a particular make and year, get on the Internet and find out if other car owners have experienced a common problem with the car. You may not be aware of certain recalls associated with the car in question. Also check the Blue Book values while you shop to confirm you are getting a fair deal.

Once you are satisfied the car you want is in good condition, it's up to you to negotiate a fair price and method of payment that will benefit you. If you are able to finance through a used car dealership or a bank, research both options and other possibilities so you get the best deal.

Buying a used car, whether directly through an owner or via a reputable dealership, doesn't have to be a headache. The more you know about the automobile you plan to buy, the easier it will be to drive home and enjoy your new ride.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk used cars and Virginia Beach cars.

How to Make Sure You're Not Buying a Lemon of a Used Car

As kids we may have watched our parents browse for a new family car, and laughed when they kicked the tires as a way of determining quality craftsmanship. Now, as we look forward to buying a new or pre-owned vehicle, we likely carry the same concerns. An automobile is a big purchase, one that shouldn't be made on the fly, and you definitely don't want to drive one home to discover it needs more repair than you're willing or able to pay for! Given the price of gas and other essentials these days, it's important to make sure you're not driving a lemon off the lot.

There are several ways to avoid this embarrassment, of course. Your first stop in your car search should happen where you are most comfortable browsing. This could be a car dealership where you have previously purchased an auto with no problems, or a place highly recommended by friends and family. If you are looking for a specific make or model not sold by dealers you know, do your research. Check Internet sites for consumer opinion of the car - there may be a history of poor performance you don't know about - and find a reputable dealership if that is still what you want.

Once you have narrowed the field down to a few choices, you want to learn everything you can about the car, especially if you are buying a pre-owned model. Did the car have previous owners? What can you learn about them, and how they treated the car? If the car is new, find out if it's a demo model, and where is was manufactured if possible. Watchdog reports sites may be able to tell you to look out for cars from certain plants, particularly if there is a high percentage of faulty cars coming from them.

If you are not familiar with engines and the basic mechanics of a car, bring along somebody you trust who will be able to tell you if a car is running correctly during a test drive. Depending on the dealership, a salesman may be required to come with you on the ride, but you can still ascertain how well the car works. Securing a reasonable warranty on the car you buy is a good way to protect yourself in the event something goes wrong with the car soon after you buy it.

Take precautions during car shopping so you won't end up with a lemon.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk used cars and Norfolk used trucks.