ME Used Car Buyer’s Guide

Used cars are a common choice for those seeking a reliable form of transportation that isn’t going to lead to long term costs and monthly payments, or higher needs for more auto insurance coverage. However, there is a bit of knowledge to take in when considering buying a used car mainly because these vehicles are in used condition and may be accompanied by issues you aren’t expecting.

Buying used also means that you have to complete the title transfer and registration yourself, sending you to the DMV to prove new ownership over the vehicle and to submit the paperwork needed to get documentation on the vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

  • Buyer’s Guide to Used vs. New Vehicles If you aren’t sure the reasons why a used vehicle is sometimes a better choice than a new vehicle, or if you want to consider the pros and cons of both to compare them well, you can definitely check out this guide for the information you need. You should be well aware of what benefits are found from a used vehicle over a new model.
  • Online Used Car Purchasing There is a great deal of attention you must pay to the various elements of online vehicle sales if you are planning on playing the market. You definitely want to be sure to protect yourself from any type of fraud, while also ensuring that you are buying the vehicle you really want and fully understand your rights and the details of the vehicle. Be sure to utilize the appropriate resources as well, as you could lose out with sites that aren’t credible.
  • Dealer Purchase vs. Private Sales There are different resources for used vehicles, which span across pre-owned vehicle sale car lots and private sellers who are selling their personal vehicles. Obviously, there are quite a few more considerations to make when you are purchasing a private seller’s vehicle, as you should be more careful to prevent fraud and to protect yourself from the purchase of a lemon.
  • Inspecting the Vehicle Properly When you are buying a vehicle, whether new or used, you always want to inspect the vehicle very well to ensure that you don’t purchase a vehicle that has issues, whether mechanical or cosmetic, that you weren’t aware of. The test drive is just one component of inspection, with a personal mechanic a great help when inspecting under the hood and body.
  • Vehicle Research Whether you are getting a new model off the lot or getting a used vehicle through a dealership or private seller, vehicle research is essential to be sure that you are really getting a vehicle that has great value to your lifestyle, offering the MPG’s that you really want and the power that you are looking for. Check out the specs and features as well as the value by the book to see whether or not you are getting a good deal from the seller.
  • Vehicle History Reports Never, ever go about purchasing a used car without first viewing the vehicle history report. This can be a lifesaver when it comes to avoiding a lemon and a branded vehicle that was kept a secret. You should always make a purchase that is well-informed that way you aren’t losing out on your overall investment.
  • Paperwork for a Vehicle Purchase Always, always remember that there is paperwork required in a vehicle purchase, especially when you are buying from a private seller. If you don’t get the appropriate paperwork signed properly by the seller, you could see a longer wait in transferring and registering the vehicle in your name.