Car Owner Used

First check a reliable car owner used price guide such as KBB (Kelley Blue Book), Black Book, Red Book, or the NADA Used Vehicle Guide.

Review reliability reports available through Consumer Reports and the National Safety and Insurance publications that compare car models, options, and costs, and offer information about frequency-of-repair records, safety tests, and mileage.

Buying a car from a private party is very different from buying from a car dealer. Private sellers generally are not covered by the laws that regulate dealers.

Never rely on spoken promises, they are difficult to enforce. Get all promises in writing.

Generally, vehicles purchased from private individuals are "as is", with no warranty (unless the manufacturer's warranty is still in affect). Often, manufacturer's warranties are not transferable.

Certified used cars are increasingly popular. Generally, manufacturers consider only late-model, relatively low-mileage used cars and trucks with no history of major damage for their certification programs.

Once a vehicle is certified, it is covered by a warranty that extends beyond the original factory warranty. Some automakers offer an exchange or a money-back guarantee if a customer is not satisfied with a certified pre-owned vehicle.

Buyers should understand that they will pay more for a certified used car than for a regular used car.

Leasing is a popular option to buying. In many cases the payments will be less per month, and you don't have the hassle of selling or trading.

Find help for personal loan bad credit.

Whether buying new or used; or selling a vehicle, first check a reliable car price guide such as KBB (Kelley Blue Book), Black Book, Red Book, or the NADA Used Vehicle Guide.

For more on all things automotive, turn from car owner used to the Lease Cars home page.

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