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How to Buy a Good Used Car... Page 2
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3) Decide That You Want a "Problem Free" Car! When I made a
list of attributes that I wanted my car to have, this was very important. I didn't want a
car that I had to pay through the nose to maintain. This would defeat the purpose of
buying a used car. So far, I have had to replace 2 tires and an alternator, which cost me
about $300 -- not bad for a year's worth of maintenance on a used car.
4) Check the Newspaper, Credit Unions, Military Bases, Friends and Co-Workers! I
highly recommend these avenues as ways to locate a good used car. I talked to all my
friends and co-workers to let them know I was in the market for a used car and I got
several leads. I also checked my credit union and went to nearby military bases to look at
their "lemon lots" -- lots where soldiers who were soon leaving the area
advertised their cars for sale. I finally got my car from a co-worker who was planning to
sell his car. I had gotten a ride from him earlier that year and was impressed with the
shape the car was in. Little did I know I would one day be its new owner!
5) When In Doubt, Have It Checked Out! It is always a great idea to have
a mechanic check out the car that you decide to purchase. This can save time and money,
well, you know, down the road. While a mechanic can give you a pretty good idea of just
what shape your used car choice is in, she will not be able to detect all of the repairs
that may arise in the future. However, she can certainly help you to know if you are
buying a peach or a lemon.
6) Just the Facts! Will you make payments to the person who is to sell
the car? What are the payment terms? Do you have any recourse if something happens to the
car? Will the seller have any recourse if you do not live up to your agreement? It just
makes good sense to sit down with the seller and make a list of your concerns about the
purchase and sale of the auto. This will be your contract and in order to protect you
both, its is best to get it all down in writing. WOMAN MOTORIST provides a copy of an
agreement in the Used Car Buying Guide.
7) Decide on a Good Mechanic! A mechanic can be your best friend or your
worst enemy. Like friends, it is up to you to choose one carefully. Ask around. Friends
will tell you about reliable mechanics that work on their cars. Go to one and ask
questions. Observe how he or she responds to you, if they are friendly and know their
business. The first mechanic I asked to look over my car seemed very friendly. He gave me
a quote on repairs that totaled about $800.00. A real nice fellow, he didn't even charge
me for the consultation. The second mechanic I visited told me that most of the repairs
recommended by the first mechanic weren't even necessary. Which only goes to prove that
one must be ever vigilant and prepared when dealing with repair facilities!
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