The Right Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Car

Buying a car, used or new, is a big decision. It is verycomplete report of the vehicle's history. Make sure the
important to walk into the situation with a good ideaVIN number matches on the car and on the CarFax
about what questions you should ask and whatreport. It also helps you to know that they have used
information is relevant to buying a used vehicle. Makethe correct parts when repairing your vehicle in the
sure to get all of the information you need to make anpast and that it is worth the value they are selling it for.
informed decision so that you never regret yourFor instance, if you are buying used cars Fort Worth
decision.and it is a ford, make sure they used ford parts in any
There are certain questions that you should ask arepairs they made in the past.
salesman including:6. What new equipment comes with the purchase?
1. Is this vehicle certified? If the car is certified, and itFind out if the dealership will provide new tires or some
should be to guarantee that it is in good, workingother parts that might be needed soon depending on
condition, ask to see the mechanics pre-certificationthe mileage.
inspection report. This paperwork will allow you to see7. Have you performed any service on this car since
what has been fixed on the car. You should keep thisgetting it? If they have not performed any service
for future reference.since acquiring the vehicle, you might not be getting the
2. Who certified the used car as "certified"? Unless abest value. If they have performed a complete
manufacturer certified the used car, it is not consideredoverhaul, you will probably not need to get the vehicle
certified. Make sure to check who did the inspectionserviced for a while.
and verify the certification.8. Do you take trade-ins? It simplifies the process
3. Where/who was the vehicle purchased from? Ifsignificantly for you if you are able to do the trade in
someone brought the vehicle in to that specificand sale through the dealership. You may not make
dealership, ask to see the maintenance records. If theythe same amount as selling it yourself, but you will
bought it elsewhere, such as an auction, make sure itsave yourself the hassle of selling it yourself.
has been inspected very carefully by a technician.9. Do you have a return policy? No one offers cash
4. Can I take it on a test drive? Make sure you get aback on vehicles, but most will offer to let you bring it
good feel for the car and that you really like it. Someback for something of equal value.
dealers even let you take it on an overnight test drive.Remember when purchasing your new car that you
You will need to show them proof of insurance andshould make sure it is the perfect car for you. Dealers
promise to bring the car back with the same amountshould be willing to answer all of these questions and
of gas.make you feel comfortable making this large purchase.
5. Can I see the CarFax report? This will give you a