Used cars were once the province of the somewhat shady lot on the corner lit with the bare electric bulbs, populated by guys and, rarely, gales, in bad suits. Consumers who bought from such locations knew they were taking a risk and they lived with it.

But that was then. Today, used vehicles are big business, and giant, publicly traded corporations and the vehicle manufacturers themselves are playing in what has become a much more competitive game. One of the many results of this intense competitive pressure is the phenomenon known as the Certified Pre-Owned vehicle or CPO car. Some have heralded the Certified Pre-Owned Read more . . .

There has never been a better time to buy a used vehicle than right now.   It’s true!   Previously owned vehicles last longer, are built better, and deliver more reliable service than ever in history. And many used vehicles can now be purchased with warranty and roadside assistance coverage, something that was unheard of in the day of buying a used vehicle “as is.”   But, while used-vehicle bargains are out there in vast numbers, choosing just the right one for you is still fraught with several challenges.   Making a bad buy can haunt you — and perhaps your credit — for years down the road.   Before purchasing a used vehicle, it’s essential to find out as much as you can about the vehicle’s maintenance history and any mechanical problems it might be hiding. Read more . . .

 

Man driving a car

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Use this UsedCars.biz handy checklist when you are test driving a used car. If some of the items below seem too “picky” for you, skip them: but remember that little annoyances today can grow into huge disturbances tomorrow.

 

 

 

 

Driveability

_____Acceleration should be smooth (not necessarily rapid).

_____Pinging may indicate a needed tune-up or may be poor fuel. Some Read more . . .

Use this UsedCars.biz handy checklist when you are inspecting a used car. If some of the items below seem too “picky” for you, skip them: but remember that little annoyances today can grow into huge disturbances tomorrow.

Excel template

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Exterior

_____Look for unmatched paint or poor body fit (may indicate collision damage).

_____Check for body filler (use a refrigerator magnet on suspicious spots, unless body panel is not made of metal to begin with).

_____Look for rust all around, especially at wheelwells, under doors, in trunk.

_____Musty smell or dampness in trunk may indicate collision damage. Read more . . .

The sheer variety of vehicles available from so many manufacturers can easily overwhelm an unprepared shopper. Below, we tackle as many of the issues, in as much detail as we think you can stand!

• How much car do you really need?Buy a car
• Budget early
• Research insurance costs
• Color and trim
• Lease or buy?
• Choosing a dealer
• Negotiating
• Saving money
• Negotiating psychology
• Financing and contracts Read more . . .