Are you thinking of buying a used car? You're certainly far from alone. In fact, America's confidence in used cars has increased, as recent sales reports show. There are varying opinions on the matter, but experts agree on one thing: you have to be extra conscientious when shopping for used cars. Jerry Edgerton, expert on car deals, writes for CBS News:
"The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that on outstanding recalls, about 30 percent of owners do not take their car to a dealer for the recommended fix. And Carfax, which sells reports tracing the history of used cars, says its database with information from manufacturers shows that of used cars for sale online last year, about 3.5 million had defects subject to a recall but had not had the repair done.
To look for open recalls on a car you are considering, go to this Carfax site for a free check. Click on the brand of car involved and then enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If there is a recalled defect that has not been fixed, the site will give you a brief description."
Here are other practical tips to steer you in the right direction when buying used cars in Slidell, LA:
Explore the car details with its VIN.
Aside from checking any recalled defect, you can use the VIN to know a variety of information on the car. Check for any car accident history, history of use (whether it was for personal, lease, taxi or police use), maintenance work, and others. Online dealers, such as Baldwin Subaru, conveniently place the VIN of each car in their inventory, so you could do a little digging right away.
Search for quality car models.
Remember that the car model you buy should not only be hot or good-looking, but dependable as well. Choose brands that are known for reliable quality, such as Honda and Ford. Finding genuine parts and accessories for mainstream car models would also be a cinch in the long run.
Pay attention to the fine print.
Look for the dealer's certifications as well as the car's title. Used cars that Slidell, LA dealers sell are rigorously inspected and maintained for any worn-out parts and functions. Trusted dealers are very transparent when it comes to the car's details, maintenance work, and applicable warranty clauses.
(Source: How to avoid buying a used car with an unfixed recall defect, CBS News, March 24, 2014)
