Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Questions You Should Ask When Buying an Automobile (What the Seller Must Tell You)

When I turned 16 and went out to shop for my first car with my savings, all I could afford was used so I started perusing the classifieds in my local paper and found one worth looking into.  The friendly seller seemed sincere; the car was a few years old but looked practically new.  My mechanic, who I brought along with me, test drove the car with me and gave the engine a passing test.  I (naively) ended up purchasing it with cash, rather than check upon the seller’s insistence.

Shortly after owning the car, I got into a minor fender bender so I made a beeline to a body shop for a repair estimate.  To my surprise, I received a call from the repair guy who told me that the car had been in a fairly major accident prior to this.  The frame was bent and straightened.  What??!!  I quickly realized why the seller insisted on cash and why the car looked practically new.  He had a collision, fixed and painted the car and decided to sell it.  Being a rookie in the car shopping experience, I kicked myself in the you-know-what for not asking more questions: whether the car had been in an accident, what repairs had been done in the past, etc…

As it turns out, there are good, valid reasons to ask investigative questions to a dealer or private seller, and it’s imperative you get the answers in writing. As many Lemon Law lawyers would agree, there are several vital questions consumers should always ask a seller.  Some are solely for dealer transaction, but at any rate, they are prime examples of how thorough and vigilant buyers should be when purchasing a motor vehicle.


What is the repair history for this vehicle?

If the car is relatively new or Certified Pre-Owned, a dealer should be capable of looking up the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and giving you a record of the work that’s been performed on the car at various dealerships. While it won’t include repairs by shops that aren’t associated with the manufacturer, you could gather important information about problems encountered by the previous owner.  If you are purchasing a car from a private seller, there are many websites where you can look up the VIN yourself or run a CARFAX report before deciding to buy.  This information will uncover important info such as any prior flood damage, odometer rollback, prior repair information, and title information (junked or salvaged titles).

Can you verify the odometer reading?

Odometer fraud is unfortunately all too common. Many consumers are under the impression that electronic odometers make it more difficult to change the reading, but it is just the opposite. The dealer should be able to verify the odometer reading through the vehicle’s repair history, present mechanical condition and title history.”

Can I see the vehicle’s title?

Some deceitful used car dealers may attempt to misrepresent vehicles.  In many states, a vehicle’s title must indicate if the car was a lemon buyback, or a rebuilt or salvage vehicle. Check to see how titles are marked in your state through your state’s Attorney General.  Remember that seeing a vehicle’s title is not a substitute for researching the VIN or running a CARFAX report. Used car dealers sometimes commit title washing, where a lemon buyback or salvage vehicle from one state is transported to and sold in another state with less stringent titling requirements. Looking up the VIN is the only way you’ll know where the vehicle has been.  Note that relying on a CARFAX report is not sufficient, since many dealers have been known to alter them.

Is there still a manufacturer’s warranty on this vehicle?

If the car you are looking at is relatively new, it may still be covered under the original manufacturer’s warranty.  If that is the case, be sure to attain the warranty documents from the dealership or the seller.  To give yourself more reassurance, call the manufacturer before you buy and give them the VIN to verify that the original warranty is still valid.

What is your return policy?

In a previous blog post, we covered Lemon Law myths, in which one refers to the law mandating a cooling-off period, which covers the time you can return a vehicle if you change your mind. Generally, the 3-day right to cancel a contract doesn’t cover vehicle sales. However, some dealers do have a return policy. Ask what the return policy is and get it in writing.  There are a few states with a used car Lemon Law, but it’s an option of last resort.

Can I see the Buyers Guide?

There is a Federal law which states that every used vehicle must have a Buyers Guide conspicuously posted (which usually is posted on one of the rear windows). The Buyers Guide lets you know if the dealer is selling the car “as is” or if there is warranty coverage.  If so, the Buyers Guide indicates what’s covered and how much the dealer will contribute towards repair costs. If there is not a posted Buyer’s Guide, turn around run away fast.

Can I get that in writing?

Dealers eager to unload vehicles will often promise you the moon and stars when it comes to warranties, financing, extra bells and whistles or vehicle repairs. Whether it’s from a dealer or private seller, ask for the promise in writing as part of the contract. If you don’t, it will be an uphill battle proving the misrepresentation. In regards to financing, NEVER leave a dealership without the financing arranged, agreed to and signed for.  We’ve had past clients who did that and were victims of bait-and-switch scams.


106 comments:

  1. "Looking up the VIN is the only way you’ll know where the vehicle has been", yes that's right. It is the one of best ways to buy a vehicle without body replacement etc as you would observe. Here is https://vincarhistory.com/license-plate-lookup/new-york check any license plate online and get information about vehicle. Every deal would be twice safer if we had an all-knowing adviser eager to uncover any fraud. Especially when buying really expensive things like cars.

    ReplyDelete
  2. ext style. Shading plan. Name game plan. Content size. Dividing. Incorporation of a scale or hammer picture. trademark registration

    ReplyDelete
  3. Before moving toward a logo fashioner or making the logo yourself, there are some critical advances you can take to get a reasonable picture of what the logo should involve and how it ought to speak to your law firm. trademark registration

    ReplyDelete
  4. Often it is not just the driver who is a victim in the accident but also those standing by. An auto accident lawyer looks after the claims and compensation for human life as well as destruction of property. Detroit Auto Accident Lawyer

    ReplyDelete
  5. The Affair Detector can help you. With this book, you will learn how to act like a polygraph machine http://www.liedetectors.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
  6. There are various law firms that take into account the necessities of independent company. World's local classifieds

    ReplyDelete
  7. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  8. My friend recommended this blog and he was totally right keep up the fantastic work! Auto accident attorney

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thanks for the information.Your blog is very informative.You can now get performance engine tuning training to enhance car engine performance.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Incredible posting this is from you. I am really and truly thrilled to read this marvelous post. You've really impressed me today. I hope you'll continue to do so! Click Here

    ReplyDelete
  11. Like the way you've written this post. MaxiCabNow offers affordable airport cab transfer services online click maxi cab booking singapore

    ReplyDelete
  12. Excellent blog posted by you. This is very helpful for those who think to buy new vehicle. For buy latest model of audi visit here audi new

    ReplyDelete
  13. Appreciating the persistence you put into your blog and detailed information you provide. I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account. hail repair denver

    ReplyDelete
  14. I’ve been surfing online more than three hours today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It’s pretty worth enough for me. In my opinion, if all webmasters and bloggers made good content as you did, the web will be a lot more useful than ever before. property tort

    ReplyDelete
  15. Very efficiently written information about car purchasing. It will be beneficial to anybody who utilizes it. car parking lift provide the car parking lift and all other mechanic shop equipment at a affordable prices.

    ReplyDelete
  16. A lot of valuable information can be derived from the post. Get the professional and expert mechanic team to repair your car from San Antonio bumper repair

    ReplyDelete
  17. From 100 years, the mechanical advances in the automobile segment have given staggering development and improvement to the automobile business. https://bestbabyessentials.com/best-narrowest-car-seats/

    ReplyDelete
  18. You have chosen a very interesting topic for the discussion. Your article is very useful for those who are looking to buy new car. Visit on BMW in Greensboro who provide the the quality and level of the service at independent price.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Found this article is full of informative and helpful content, really love to read it. If you're looking for a new or pre-owned Lincoln, Lincoln service experts you can trust and flexible financing that works with your budget, turn to North Park Lincoln in San Antonio, TX.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Thanks a lot for sharing such an amazing blog that answers all the Questions you should ask when buying an automobile. If you are looking to hire Limo Service for Birthday in Dubai for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  21. I was surfing net and fortunately came across this site and found very interesting stuff here. Its really fun to read. I enjoyed a lot. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information..
    Best Bow Sight

    ReplyDelete
  22. Found this article is full of informative and helpful content, really love to read it. Hiring a car while on vacation in Crete is probably the most cost-effective and efficient way to go. Visit here Crete car for more.

    ReplyDelete
  23. A lot of valuable information can be derived from the post. Get the Denver to Vail limo rental services at the best prices from mountaincars.com.

    ReplyDelete
  24. I am happy that I came to see this, I truly adored it your expounding path on automobile. Much obliged to you for sharing it. I have bookmarked your page, eager to see a greater amount of it! conveyancing point cook

    ReplyDelete
  25. I think this is an informative post and it is very useful and knowledgeable. therefore, I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. Parking Lifts Made In USA

    ReplyDelete
  26. I completely recognized this article as I found heaps of huge information. Thankful for sharing this post. Get the best info about automotive lead providers then visit on leadlocate.com

    ReplyDelete
  27. Find Harley Davidson New bikes price list for all Harley Davidson bike models launched on Rashgear.Also know expected price, launch date, specifications, images at Rashgear.com

    ReplyDelete
  28. I am glad to say that this is a very useful post. superb and intresting.one of the best post.this inspired a new blog. Thanks for sharing wonderful information . Used Jaguar Engine

    ReplyDelete
  29. A debt of gratitude is for giving some reliable information from this post as it contains some essential data about the professional resource. Continue Posting. car dealers Greenville sc

    ReplyDelete
  30. Automobile Engineering is the branch of engineering which deals with designing, manufacturing, mechanical mechanisms as well operations of automobiles. Used Mazda Engine

    ReplyDelete
  31. Nice & informative article, I highly appreciate your efforts, we provide the best Wrongful Death Lawyer in Texas, US.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Excellent information, I am heartily thankful to you that you have shared this information with us. I got some different kind of knowledge from your article, and it is helpful for everyone. Thanks for share it. Condo association laws

    ReplyDelete
  33. Valuable information. Thanks for publishing such great information. You are doing such a great job. This information is very helpful for everyone. Keep it up. Thanks.Car Finance Online Application Winnipeg

    ReplyDelete
  34. Car rental companies hire professional drivers that drive safely and well versed with routes besides being well aware of traffic laws. araç kiralama

    ReplyDelete
  35. Great set of questions to mitigate future legal troubles, very professional advices. For all legal matters it is good to take professional advice from reliable law firms. Mediation Attorney Northshore

    ReplyDelete
  36. Nice article!
    Before you choose a auto body shop for your car service make sure
    1. you have compared the service price.
    2. You have checked the experience of the shop.
    3. You have checked the online reviews.
    And questions you can
    1.) How much experience do you have.
    2.) Service price.
    3.) Do you use updated tools and equipment.
    My favourite shop is Winter's Auto Service shop in Winnipeg. This shop also have mpi winter tire program

    ReplyDelete
  37. how to answer a lawsuit for debt collection in texas, Thank you because you have been willing to share information with us. we will always appreciate all you have done here because I know you are very concerned with our.

    ReplyDelete
  38. I thoroughly concur with this article and I simply need to state that this article is an extremely overall quite exceptionally educational article. thank you for this article.plant and machinery valuation in dubai

    ReplyDelete
  39. I will share it with my other friends as the information is really very useful. Online Cab Booking Service In Hyderabad Keep sharing your excellent work.

    ReplyDelete
  40. I really want to thank the author for such a nice blog that helped me to understand why it is important. Car Servicing Epsom

    ReplyDelete
  41. Make sure you get a tractor with a diesel engine. Diesel engines have better performance and usually last longer than gas engines. Implements also work better on diesel engine tractors. tractors for sale UK

    ReplyDelete
  42. You composed this post cautiously which is beneficial for us.domestic vehicle repair Kamloops I got some different kind of information from your article and I will suggest reading this article who need this info. Thanks for share it.

    ReplyDelete
  43. You have shared such a great article in this post. I got some useful knowledge about Automobile from this post. Thanks for posting it. Keep it up. car repair perrysburg

    ReplyDelete
  44. Incredible occupation for distributing a particularly decent article. I'm stunned by the manner in which you have clarified things in this article. Thank you since you have been happy to impart data to us. Verify Used Car Ownership In Nigeria

    ReplyDelete
  45. The information you have shared here is really informative as it contains some great knowledge which is very helpful for me. Thanks for posting it. Keep it up. Car accident attorney bakersfield ca

    ReplyDelete
  46. You have worked nicely with your insights that makes our work easy. The information you have provided is really factual and significant for us. Keep sharing these types of article, Thank you. Auto Injury Lawyer near me

    ReplyDelete
  47. You are sharing a piece of nice information here. The information you have provided is genuinely instructive and significant for us. Thanks for sharing an article like this. Criminal Attorney near me

    ReplyDelete
  48. I generally check this kind of article and I found your article which is related to my interest. Genuinely it is good and instructive information. Thankful to you for sharing an article like this.auto accident injury treatment gilbert az

    ReplyDelete
  49. I read this article, it is really informative. Your way of writing and making your thoughts is very impressive. Thanking you for such an informative article. Honda keyless remotes

    ReplyDelete
  50. I read this article, it is really informative. Your way of writing and making your thoughts is very impressive. Thanking you for such an informative article. Toyota car parts

    ReplyDelete
  51. A very delightful article that you have shared here. Your blog is a valuable and engaging article for us, and also I will share it with my companions who need this info. Thankful to you for sharing an article like this.Family law attorneys in San Antonio

    ReplyDelete
  52. Booking a luxury car hire will mean you travel in style, comfort and will have some fantastic memories to look back upon. Super Car Rental

    ReplyDelete
  53. I would like to say this is a well-informed article as we have seen here. Your way of writing is very impressive and also it is a beneficial article for us. Thanks for sharing an article like this. hip pain clinic Scottsdale AZ

    ReplyDelete
  54. I will share it with my other friends as the information is really very useful. Keep sharing your excellent work. back pain clinic Surprise AZ

    ReplyDelete
  55. This is excellent and important information which is shared by you. This info is meaningful and important for us to increase our knowledge about personal injury center Phoenix az it. Always keep sharing this kind of information. Thank you once again for sharing it.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Thanks for your post. It's very helpful post for us. You can also visit cash for cars for more Victor Steel related information. I would like to thanks for sharing this article here.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Thank you for sharing this blog with us.
    At this time, if you can use good medicinal materials and ingredients to strengthen hormones,auto wreckers will be able to retain your youth and enjoy masculine power.

    ReplyDelete
  58. I got information from your article which you have shared here. I will be sharing with my friends who will need this info. Thanks for it, Keep posting.2nd Hand Car For Sale In Delhi

    ReplyDelete
  59. Great job for publishing such a nice article. Your article isn’t only useful but it is additionally really informative. Thank you because you have been willing to share information with us. Read more info about junkyard parts

    ReplyDelete
  60. Excellent job, this is great information which is shared by you. This info is meaningful and factual for us to increase our knowledge about it. So please always keep sharing this type of information. Read more info about Dalaman Car Hire

    ReplyDelete
  61. Nice job, this is essential information that is shared by you. This information is meaningful and factual for us to increase our knowledge about it. Always keep sharing this type of information. Limo Rental Baltimore

    ReplyDelete
  62. The information which you have provided is very good and essential for everyone. Keep sharing this kind of information. Thank you. car for cash auckland

    ReplyDelete
  63. However in instances associated with personal financing, the actual debtors have to be better and additional cautious regarding once the cash needs to be paid back. Business Funding

    ReplyDelete
  64. I am very thankful to you for sharing this best knowledge with us. This information is helpful for everyone. So please always share this kind of knowledge with everyone. Thanks. Read more info about taxi booking Cirencester

    ReplyDelete
  65. I read the above article and I got some knowledge from your article. It's actually great and useful data for us. mobile car washer Thanks for share it.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Excellent work. This post that you have shared is attractive. Really, I was searching for these types of blogs. Thank you for sharing this blog. Engine for mazda 6

    ReplyDelete
  67. The information which you have provided is very good and essential for everyone. Keep sharing this kind of information. Thank you. mazda engines

    ReplyDelete
  68. You have worked nicely with your insights that makes our work easy. The information you have provided is really factual and significant for us. Keep sharing these types of articles, Thank you. Limo Rental Baltimore

    ReplyDelete
  69. I admire this article for the well-researched content and excellent wording. I got so involved in this material that I couldn’t stop reading. I am impressed with your work and skill. Thank you so much.Carlisle Taxi

    ReplyDelete
  70. I liked your way to represent such informative thoughts. Here you have shared an amazing article, this article provides the car rental services. visit us: Luxury Car Hire Jaipur

    ReplyDelete
  71. Excellent job, this is great information which is shared by you. This info is meaningful and factual for us to increase our knowledge about it. So please always keep sharing this type of information. Read more info about Premium 4wd suspension parts store

    ReplyDelete
  72. I will share it with my other friends as the information is really very useful. Keep sharing your excellent work. Read more info about Car locksmith near me

    ReplyDelete
  73. Book the best luxury car rental miami services with mph club on your next trip to south Florida, great daily luxury car rental deals. Luxury rental car Miami

    ReplyDelete
  74. I will share it with my other friends as the information is really very useful. Car buyers online. Keep sharing your excellent work.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Very well written article. It was an awesome article to read. Read more info about Limo Service Melbourne. Complete rich content and fully informative. I totally Loved it.

    ReplyDelete
  76. This post is really awesome. Genuinely i like this blog. It gives me more useful information. I hope you share lots of things with us.taxi service in Jaipur

    ReplyDelete
  77. I generally check this kind of article and I found your article which is related to my interest. Genuinely it is good and instructive information,taxi to manchester airport Thankful to you for sharing an article like this.

    ReplyDelete
  78. I found decent information in your article. I am impressed with how nicely you described this subject, It is a gainful article for us,Dmv Vehicle Title Transfer Services Fremont Thanks for share it.

    ReplyDelete
  79. It is really a helpful blog to find some different source to add my knowledge. windshield repair albuquerque

    ReplyDelete
  80. Excellent post. I really enjoy reading and also appreciate your work. This concept is a good way to enhance knowledge. Keep sharing this kind of articles,high end used car dealers dubai Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  81. I generally check this kind of article and I found your article which is related to my interest. Genuinely it is good and instructive information,luxury cars for sale dubai Thankful to you for sharing an article like this.

    ReplyDelete
  82. Hey friend, it is very well written article, thank you for the valuable and useful information you provide in this post. Keep up the good work! FYI, shih tzu hair products , slice credit card review, the psychology of money pdf,my self in english 20 lines

    ReplyDelete
  83. You have mentioned here great information here. I would like to say this is a well-informed article and also beneficial article for us. Keep sharing this kind of articles, Thank you.rv auction

    ReplyDelete
  84. It is a proficient article that you have shared here. I got some different kind of information from your article which I will be sharing with my friends who need this info. Thankful to you for sharing an article like this.Brake Master Cylinder

    ReplyDelete
  85. Very informative article, You explain all aspects of topic and guied your reader precisely. Check out the classified platform to visit sell my car in san antonio

    ReplyDelete
  86. Very nice post, impressive. its quite different from other posts. Thanks for sharing.
    Landlord Tenant Dispute Lawyer in Ontario

    ReplyDelete
  87. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Good Post! Thank you so much for sharing this pretty post, it was so good to read and useful to improve my knowledge as updated one, keep blogging.
    Notary Public Lawyer in Cambridge

    ReplyDelete
  89. The delightful article you have posted here. This is a good way to increase our knowledge. Book Change Cancellation Driving Test UK Continue sharing this kind of articles, Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  90. Very informative blog... Thanks for sharing important aspects of buying an automotive.I just read and shared it to my friends as it is very useful for everyone.

    Car Rentals Miami

    ReplyDelete

  91. Very Nice Post. The only way to prevent this is to save on car repairs and do regular maintenance. Still sometimes due to usage you may have to do car repair. I personally recommend Winter's Collision Repair, a reliable auto body shop in the Winnipeg area. Winter’s goals have always been simple deliver quality work and earn customer loyalty. I took their services multiple times. I would be very grateful.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Great post by the great author, it is very massive and informative about Advanced Driving Course For 17 To 25 Year Old but still preaches the way to sounds like that it has some beautiful thoughts described so I really appreciate this post .

    ReplyDelete
  93. I really enjoy your article because you arranged every fact in very good manner which gives it a look of series in which topics are connected amazing, Hope you will share this type of article and information in future.
    employment lawyer toledo ohio

    ReplyDelete
  94. Amazing data, Gratitude for distributing such fundamental data. You are doing great work. This data is exceptionally useful for everybody. Keep it up. Much obliged. Peruse more data about Buy Throttle Sensitivity Controller Online

    ReplyDelete
  95. Thank you so much for the sharing. All contents were expressed in a clear n simplified manner n it was meaningful too. You are a marvelous writer. Good work!
    class actions lawyers columbus ohio

    ReplyDelete
  96. This is very informative and interesting for me. thank you for such a wonderful post and for sharing. God bless you. we also provide service. Book Hybrid Polish Car Service for more info visit our website.

    ReplyDelete
  97. You have mentioned here great information here. I would like to say this is a well-informed article and also beneficial article for us. employment lawyer toledo ohio

    ReplyDelete
  98. Thank you so much for the sharing. All contents were expressed in a clear n simplified manner n it was meaningful too. You are a marvelous writer. Good work!
    columbus truck crash attorney

    ReplyDelete
  99. Nice information, and thank you for giving this crucial information. Everyone can benefit from this knowledge. Learn more about the Used Auto Dealers in Anchorage Alaska. So, kindly spread this kind of knowledge at all times. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  100. Interesting to read your post. I can't wait to see your next post. Good luck for upcoming updates. This article is very interesting and effective. Thanks for sharing such a blog. Timing belt kit

    ReplyDelete
  101. We appreciate you sharing this information with us. Give in this manner going forward. If you're looking for Mobile Car Scratch Repair Sydney, kindly click the link. Your automobile will look like new once we repair any damage with the newest tools and methods. Thank you

    ReplyDelete
  102. We appreciate you sharing this information with us. For Limousine Services in Dubai and Abu Dhabi reach out to us at https://akemacs.com/ , https://akemacs.com/booking/ , https://www.akemacs.com/ , www.akemacs.com now.

    ReplyDelete
  103. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete