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by
Courtney
Caldwell
 All Sales Final — Take Your Time
In most used car cases, if
you buy from a private party or a no-name corner dealership, you own it and all
its problems, once you leave. So take your time before making a commitment. Hint:
Returned leased vehicles make excellent buys as they have low mileage and dealerships
usually inspect them bumper-to-bumper in preparation for sale. They often come
with warranties too.
Finding the Right Retailer — Build A Relationship
Establish
a friendly relationship with your dealer that you trust so when you return for
maintenance you'll feel confident about it. Building a positive long-term relationship
is to the dealer’s advantage too. Happy customers recommend their dealership
to friends and family. They don't want unhappy customers who will bad mouth the
dealership.
Seek Out Salespeople Who Don't Use High Pressure Sales Tactics
If a salesperson is using high pressure sales tactics, your red flag should go
up. Today's quality brand name cars practically sell themselves. Sales people
that use high pressure usually have another agenda. Walk away. If you're not in
control, getting your questions answered, and feeling comfortable, then this is
not the place to make your sale.
Search the Net for Information
The Internet is a beautiful thing.
You can do all your research at home. Just search the web for things like how
to inspect a used car, auto reviews, leased vehicle sales, etc. Most importantly,
do a vehicle identification number check (VIN check). There are several online
services that will provide a complete history of the vehicle for a small fee.
Never Settle & Exercise Your Right To Change Your Mind
It's
your money! Do what you want, not what someone else wants you to do. You're the
one who has to live with this car. Never accept any deal that's a final sale.
Be sure the door is left open to bring the car back in for maintenance and repairs.
Don’t settle for anything less than what you really want unless it's a compromise
you can live with. Explore their warranties, and research extended warranties.
Check out their service department.
Read the Fine Print!
And always, and we
do stress always, read the fine print before signing anything and what you don't
understand, ask someone who is knowledgeable about contracts.
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