There are several likely places to find a wide range of listings of listings of vehicles for sale.
Print publications
A good place to start your search for a used car is in print publications such as newspapers, used auto magazines, and new and used car dealer advertisements. These publications usually have a great number of listings. For some older car models, or models that are considered classics, a bookstore may also be helpful.
The Internet
On-line computer services that access the Internet may also be good sources of advertisements. Use a search engine to access the Web and type in “automotive” for listings in your area. A few good sites are www.craigslist.com, www.autotrader.com, www.ebay.com and, of course, www.TheAutoLog.com.
Public auctions
Public auto auctions are another source. Public auctions are listed in your local newspaper. However, public auctions can be risky because consumers are not allowed a pre-purchase inspection.
Get a Handle on Price
After you have found ads for a few vehicles that interest you, look at them more closely. Compare the prices with the same models in other ads to get a general idea of the value range of that type of vehicle.
Look at Car Dealerships
In the search for the vehicle of your choice, the best plan of action is to look at both private party individuals and dealers. Factory dealers generally sell late-model vehicles with low mileage, while non-factory dealers normally sell a wider range of late-model to older vehicles with higher mileage.
Car dealerships often have used car departments and offer a selection of vehicles that they have taken as trade-ins or from their own fleet programs. These cars are primarily late models and will most likely be priced higher than those sold by private individuals. One advantage of these vehicles is that they usually have been put through an inspection process by the car dealership. If you are interested in a car from a dealership, ask for a copy of the inspection report.
Dealerships may or may not allow you to take a car you are interested in to your service technician. However, you can make your purchase contingent on your technician’s report.
A second advantage to buying from a dealer is that you may be able to purchase a warranty contract and the dealer may offer you a better rate for financing (if required) than you can get on your own.
Respond to Vehicle Ads
You may well discover a used vehicle in a print ad, perhaps in a newspaper or an auto publication. Before you call about it, be sure you know the bluebook price range. Check to see that the ad shows the year, make, and model of the vehicle so that you can verify this information when you call. When you are ready to place the call, be sure to have a list of questions ready to ask the person selling the vehicle.
The next checklist is a compilation of questions that prospective buyers are most likely to need answers to. Check those questions that apply to your situation. We recommend you select 5 to 10 key questions to ask the seller. You may want to copy them onto another sheet according to your priorities. Use a pencil and mark your responses to the questions here, or use a separate piece of paper – especially if you plan to make a number of phone calls on different vehicles.
Body and options
What color is the vehicle?
What is the condition of the paint?
Are there any dents or scratches?
What type of interior does the vehicle have?
- Leather/Cloth/Vinyl
- What is its condition?
- What color is the interior?
Does the vehicle have:
- A stick shift?
- Automatic?
- Overdrive?
Does the vehicle have air conditioning?
If yes, does it work properly?
What other options does the vehicle have?
Is there a sunroof?
If yes, does it work properly?
Are there any leaks?
If the vehicle is a convertible, in what condition is the top?
Condition, maintenance, records
What kind of trips has the vehicle been primarily been driven on?
-Short trips/long trips/off-road/in town/for towing
How many miles are on the vehicle?
Does the odometer work correctly?
How often has the seller added oil between oil changes?
Does the seller have the service book and is it up to date?
Does the seller have all there service and repair records?
What condition are the tires in?
Has the vehicle even been in an accident?
Does the seller know of any problems with the vehicle (past or present) and are any major repairs needed (estimates)?
Does the seller have any type of extended warranty that might be transferable?
Is the vehicle on recall or under question for safety reasons?
The seller
Is the seller a private party or dealer?
-If a dealer, is there any type of warranty on the car?
Why is the seller selling the vehicle?
How long has the seller owned the vehicle?
Is the seller the original owner?
-If not, how many previous owners have there been?
-Who did the seller buy the vehicle from?
Do you have the pink slip?
Do you have the current registration?
Price and testing
How much is the asking price and will the seller take the best offer?
When and where can you see and road test the vehicle?
Does the seller have any problems with you having a service technician check out the vehicle?
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