Checking the Car’s Condition
Getting a CarFax report is a must for anyone buying a used vehicle, whether from a dealer or private seller. Ask to see any maintenance records. You should also request an independent inspection by a mechanic of your choice—the only answer you should accept is a ‘’Sure, no problem.’’ Any hesitation on the part of the seller is a huge red flag. Avoid being pressured with a hard sell. You also want to ask what state the car was bought in, as this could indicate potential issues related to weather conditions, such as the extreme heat Arizona summers or extreme cold of Minnesota winters.
Also ask about what kind of oil the car uses—this can be an indicator of how well-maintained the vehicle is. For example, someone who knows off the top of his head probably did it himself and took good care of the car. Someone else may need to consult maintenance records, which also indicates the car was probably taken good care of. If someone has no idea, make sure your mechanic gives the engine an extra close look.