A majority of people seeking to acquire a vehicle will purchase a used car as opposed to a new one. But the dream of saving substantial cash and driving away in your beautiful “cream-puff” can quickly become a nightmare of breakdowns and expensive repairs.

Research

Check your local library for reference material on various car models, options, their comparative costs and their track record for reliability. Check the Classified section of your local newspaper to compare prices.

Costs

The real cost of a car includes more than its purchase price. Consider the vehicle’s reliability. An unreliable car may cost you much more in frequent repairs, not to mention the aggravation and even lost time from work that you may incur. Financing terms can also significantly affect your total costs. Check with your local bank, credit bureau or even insurance company or motor club to compare rates.

Used Car Dealers

Check with authorities to learn if they have received complaints against a particular dealer. Never rely solely upon oral promises of a salesman, which will be difficult or impossible to enforce; ask the salesman to put it in writing. If you are considering buying a specific car, insist upon having the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy. Refusal to allow an independent inspection should be a clear warning, and you should consider taking your business elsewhere. Ask if the vehicle has ever been in an accident.

Warranties

Buying a car “as is” disclaims all warranties. You should not expect any legal protection if the car is in a bad condition. If the dealer provides its own written warranty, read the terms carefully to determine what repairs are covered, the extent of coverage (parts, labour, deductibles, exclusions) and the other terms and conditions. The dealer may try to sell you an extended service contract. You should consider the extent to which the same repairs are already covered under the dealer’s warranty. The value of a service contract is determined by whether its price is likely to be greater or less than the cost of repairs to the car.

Private Sales

You may save money by buying a used car from a private individual, such as through the classified section of your local newspaper. But you should be aware that private sellers do not have to provide you with a Buyer’s Guide, and do not provide implied warranties. Therefore, it may be even more important to obtain warranty promises in writing and to obtain an independent inspection prior to purchase.