Shop for newer used cars that still have at least a portion of their original manufacturer's warranty remaining: Most late model used cars have at least three-year/36,000 mile basic warranty coverage (and often longer "powertrain" coverage on the engine and transmission). This means you'll get at least a year or so of peace of mind if you buy a used car that is less than three years old. (Important: Be sure to confirm the used car warranty is fully transferable.)
Check into Certified, Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles: These are late model used cars and trucks that typically have less than 50,000 miles and have been given multipoint inspections -- with any needed service or upkeep taken care of before the used car is put on the lot. CPO programs are backed by the automakers (Ford, GM, Volvo, etc.) and the vehicles often include a no-cost extended warranty on major parts such as the engine and transmission. CPO used cars are usually clean and well-maintained -- the "cream puffs" of the used car market.
Do a "background check" for indications that the particular used car make/model you are considering might be a problem car: One with an unusual record of either recalls or consumer complaints. You can find information about recalls and safety-related defects at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Web site (www.nhtsa.dot.gov), and information about consumer satisfaction at JD Power & Associates (see www.jdpower.com/cc/index.jsp ). Consumer Reports is another good place to poke around (go to www.consumerreports.org/main/home.jsp and click on "autos"). It's also a very good idea to do a simple Google or Yahoo! Web search; just type in the make and model of the vehicle and "lemon." You can bet if the car has a history of problems, there will be complaints all over the Internet.
If you're interested in finding the value of a used car, check the Canadian Red Book. You'll likely find a copy at a local library but keep in mind this is only a guideline.
As well, look for other cars of the same year, make and model online to see what others are asking for in price.
As well, look for other cars of the same year, make and model online to see what others are asking for in price.
Buying privately?
There are special considerations for someone buying a car from a private seller. Whatever you know them as, "curbers" or "curbsiders", watch out for them. These folks are looking for unsuspecting buyers. They pose as private individuals selling their car, but are actually in the business of selling stolen, rebuilt or odometer-tampered vehicles. They sell damaged or defective cars to people. Don't be mistaken in thinking it won't happen to you, because according to the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council, "surveys have shown that one in four classified vehicle ads are placed by curbsiders."
Check the car's history
You'll need the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model and model year to do this and if the seller won't give it to you, beware! They obviously don't want you finding something out.
Also, check with your provincial government. They may have a standardized report that the seller has to make available to you. For example, in Ontario by law, private sellers of most motor vehicles, including motorcycles, must provide buyers with a Used Vehicle Information Package.
Check the car's history
You'll need the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model and model year to do this and if the seller won't give it to you, beware! They obviously don't want you finding something out.
Also, check with your provincial government. They may have a standardized report that the seller has to make available to you. For example, in Ontario by law, private sellers of most motor vehicles, including motorcycles, must provide buyers with a Used Vehicle Information Package.
This package includes :
1. Description of the vehicle
2. Ontario vehicle registration history
3. Odometer information
4. Outstanding debts (or liens) on the vehicle
5. Wholesale and retail values for the vehicle's model and year, if available
6. Retail sales tax requirements
7. Bill of sale
8. Tips on vehicle safety standards inspections
If the seller refuses to give you the information necessary to obtain a report on the car's history or make available all required information about the vehicle, walk away.
· Check the car's registration
Make sure the car you are buying is registered in the name of the seller. If it isn't, ask why. Otherwise, you may be buying the vehicle from a curbsider.
Make sure the car you are buying is registered in the name of the seller. If it isn't, ask why. Otherwise, you may be buying the vehicle from a curbsider.
· Have your mechanic check the car
Before you agree to buy the car, get an unbiased opinion from a mechanic you trust and not someone the seller suggests.
Before you agree to buy the car, get an unbiased opinion from a mechanic you trust and not someone the seller suggests.
Inspect the vehicle during daylight
Under the cover of darkness, many flaws can be hidden out in the open. Make sure you check out the car in the light. Look for extreme wear of the upholstery, seats, brake and accelerator pedals. Also, note anything new as this could signal the car has had more than its fair share of use. Look closely at the exterior and watch for waves on the body which could mean bodywork or that the vehicle has been in an accident.
Of course, it goes without saying; take it for a test drive. Drive at different speeds and on different road conditions to get the fullest experience possible.
Of course, it goes without saying; take it for a test drive. Drive at different speeds and on different road conditions to get the fullest experience possible.
Factor in the cost of insurance
Your insurance rates are determined, in part, by the car. Don't find out until it is too late that the cost to insure the vehicle takes you over your budget. Once you've got a car in mind, easily compare car insurance rate quotes online at Kanetix.ca to get a feel for how much it will cost to insure.
No comments:
Post a Comment