The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs is pleased to release the continuation of consumer friendly tips that should be taken into consideration when buying a used car. This helpful information is the second series of tips on this particular topic. Often when consumers are purchasing a used vehicle they are not fully aware of their buyer’s rights. The following tips will serve as a helpful tool for consumers to make wise purchase decisions and avoid the risk of purchasing a car that is defective.
Consumer tips for buying a used car:
• Make sure mileage disclosures match the odometer reading on the car.
• Ask about the dealer’s return policy. Get it in writing and read it carefully.
• Have the car inspected by your mechanic. A qualified mechanic should check the vehicle’s frame, tires, air bags, and under-carriage, as well as the engine.
• Examine dealer documents carefully. Make sure you are buying- not leasing- the vehicle. Leases use terms such as “balloon payment” and “base mileage” disclosures.
• Visit websites such as www.carfax.com and www.autocheck.com,who sell information on the history of vehicles gathered from state motor vehicle departments and other sources.
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.nhtsa.dot.gov) list VINs of its crash test vehicles and will let you search an online database of manufacturer service bulletins.
• The Center for Auto Safety (www.autosafety.org) provides information on safety defect, recalls, and lemons, as well as service bulletins.
The Department will continue to release weekly consumer tips on a number of topics that are at the forefront of consumer concern. “Information is a tool that consumers can use to safeguard themselves from being taken advantage of and falling victim to deceptive practices. Assisting, educating, and protecting consumers is an ongoing mission for the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs,” said Commissioner Biggs.
Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs
