3 Secret Tips to Save Money on a Used Car

When you buy a used car, wouldn't you like to get the best deal possible? Well, of course. Who wouldn't? Here's 3 secret tips you should know, then, and they also happen to be easy. These secrets will save you money. And anyone can benefit from them.

Secret Tip #1
Check Consumer Reports for the safest cars. Looks may be important, but safety is always more important. Go to a car repair shop and ask if they would be willing to inspect the car. Ask what the inspection includes, how long it takes, and the price. Be sure to get this information in writing. Also, ask what cars they have in most often for repairs.

Once the vehicle has been looked at, ask the mechanic for a cost estimate for all necessary repairs. Be sure the estimate lists the vehicle's make, model and VIN. That estimate is a negotiating tool for you to use with your seller.

Secret Tip #2
Private sellers generally are not bound to the Used Car Rule and don't have to use the Buyers Guide. However, you can use the Guide's list as a shopping tool. Ask the seller if you can have the car inspected by your mechanic. If he or she refuses, that's not a good sign. Better look elsewhere.

A private party usually sells a car "as is". Make sure in any case that you have a written contract between you and the seller.

A manufacturer's warranty or a service contract may still be in effect, but they may not necessarily be transferable. Before you buy the car, inspect the warranty or service contract and see if it is indeed transferable, and whether any other limitations or costs apply.

Some states will require sellers to pass a vehicle inspection before a sale is made. Contact your state Attorney General's office or a local consumer protection agency to find out what your state requires.

Secret Tip #3
Finally, use an inspection checklist to look over the car yourself. You can find a such a checklist on many of the websites on buying a used car.

Check the heater and the air conditioner. Check the seatbelts. If you can, test the car under different roads and conditions -- up and down hills, on freeways, and in city traffic.

Inspect the car's maintenance record. If the owner doesn't have copies, contact the repair shop where the work was done. They may have the information you need, and share it with you.

If the present owner is unfamiliar with the car's history, talk to the previous owner