Used Car Buying Checklist

Shopping for a used car? A used car can be a bargain, but you should know some important facts before you buy your car.

"As Is" Means No Warranty

Only about one-half of all used cars sold by dealers come with a written warranty. The other half are sold "as is," without a written warranty. This means that if you have problems with the car after you buy it, you must pay for any needed repairs yourself. The dealer has no further responsibility for the car once the sale is complete and you drive off the lot.

If you buy a car from a private individual (for example, through classified newspaper ads), you are probably buying the car "as is." Without a written contract with specific repair provisions, the seller in most states has no further responsibility for the car. Even in the few states that do not permit "as is" sales, the seller's only obligation, without a written warranty, is to sell you a car that is capable of providing basic transportation--nothing more. Of course, if you have a written contract, the seller must live up to the promises stated in the contract. Depending on its age, the car may be covered by a manufacturer's warranty or service contract. Ask the seller for details.

Warranty Protection

The used car you buy may come with a written warranty. Examine it carefully before you buy to see what is covered and what is not. If the dealer makes any promises to repair the car that are not included in your written warranty, ask the dealer to add those promises to the written warranty.

When you buy your used car, look for and ask about the following:

Service Contract

Some dealers may offer you a service contract. A service contract, like a warranty, provides repair and/or maintenance services for a specific time period. Unlike a warranty, however, a service contract costs extra. A service contract may overlap with warranty coverage. Compare the terms of any service contract offered to the terms of any warranty coverage on the used car. If you buy a service contract within 90 days of the time of sale, you may have additional rights contained in your state law. As with implied warranties, you should seek more information about how this works in your state. Additionally, a service contract will often be useless if you move out of state or overseas.

Known Defects Disclosure

If a dealer knows about a major defect prior to selling you a used car, the dealer has an obligation, under law, to disclose it. If the dealer knows the car is seriously defective and does not tell you about the defect prior to sale, you may be able to break the contract. Again, make sure to find out the specific rules that apply in your state.

Independent Inspections

Before you buy a used car, it is a good idea to ask the dealer if you may have the car inspected by an independent mechanic. In this way, you will have a chance to find out about the mechanical condition of the car before you buy it.

Some dealers will permit you to take the car to an independent mechanic. Others may have good reasons (for example, insurance restrictions) for denying this request.

With the dealer's permission, you can also ask an independent mechanic to come to the used car lot. Ask someone who knows about cars for the names of reputable mechanics. You can also find mechanics through advertisements, car repair establishments, and auto diagnostic centers in your community.

Federal Odometer Requirements Act

Federal law requires that sellers of automobiles disclose to buyers the accurate mileage on a car as indicated by the odometer or tell buyers if mileage is unknown. The law further provides civil penalties for those who intentionally violate these requirements. If you have purchased a used car and believe the mileage on the car to be higher than what was disclosed to you, see your legal assistance attorney.

Used Car Inspection Checklist

When you shop for a used car, you may find the following checklist helpful. Make sure you or your mechanic check for cracks, leaks, breaks, abnormal noises, and missing or inoperable parts in the systems of the car listed below.

___ Frame and body: Is the frame straight and solid?

___ Engine: Is there excessive oil leakage? Are the belts in place? Is the block or head cracked? Is the exhaust normal?

___ Transmission and drive shaft: Is the transmission fluid proper and seepage normal? Is the transmission solid? Is the drive shaft in good shape?

___ Differential: Does the differential operate quietly without excessive seepage?

___ Cooling system: Does the water pump function properly? Is there any leakage, including any from the radiator?

___ Electrical system: Does the battery leak? Do the alternator, generator, battery, and starter work properly?

___ Fuel system: Is there any visible leakage?

___ Accessories: Do gauges and warning devices work? Do the air conditioner, heater, and defroster work?

___ Brake system: Do the warning lights work? Is the brake pedal firm under pressure? Does the vehicle stop in a straight line? Check the hoses, drum and lining for soundness. Are structural and mechanical parts solid?

___ Steering system: Is there too much free play in the steering? Are the front wheels aligned properly? Check the power unit belts for cracks or slippage and the unit fluid levels.

___ Suspension system: Are the ball joint seals intact? Are the structural parts solid and straight? Are springs and shocks properly connected? Check shock absorbers for leakage and loose mountings.

___ Tires: Check the tread for depth of wear, the tire sizes for matching, and for any other obvious damage.

___ Wheels: Look for any visible cracks, damage, or repairs. Check for loose or missing mounting bolts.

___ Exhaust system: Check for leakage and exhaust smoke when the engine is running.