Connecticut Better Business Bureau Offers Tips on Buying a Used Car
Summary
“Buying a used vehicle requires homework and planning to ensure that an attractively-priced used car or truck doesn’t have hidden problems that can turn it into a very costly investment in the long run.” Some of the factors associated with purchasing a used vehicle include how it will be used, how long the consumer intends to keep it, features, financing options and forecast costs for maintenance, repairs and operation.A library, bookstore, bank or insurance agent should have a copy of the monthly National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide (www.Checking a car’s history is important, since some criminal dealers may sell stolen vehicles through newspaper ads, disguising themselves as private owners.Consumer review publications can also offer useful information for used car buyers, and the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) operates a toll-free hotline 800-424-9393, as well as an Internet site (www.nhtsa.dot.gov) to verify whether there have been any recalls or other safety problems with a given vehicle make or model.There are also several free, helpful resources to determine which seller is offering the best deal.A library, bookstore, bank or insurance agent should have a copy of the monthly National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide (www.For a fee, some independent companies provide detailed information on a car’s history.Checking a car’s history is important, since some criminal dealers may sell stolen vehicles through newspaper ads, disguising themselves as private owners.