Used Car Buying Advice
20190726
Buying a car is daunting but like any large project, if you make a plan and tackle issues individually, you’ll gain confidence as research begets knowledge (take notes!). Focus on each issue; as you check them off, feeling overwhelmed becomes self-assurance.
The following are just my thoughts. I’m not an expert, just an OCD software engineer happy to share what I’ve learned. You’ll have to winnow the wheat from the chaff. Huh? Haha, it’s a farming reference.
This is a lot to digest; take small bites and chew slowly. Listed in approximate order of importance but feel free to jump around.
1. General
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Pay mechanic to inspect vehicle
Have vehicle inspected by an honest, independent (non-dealer) mechanic specializing in this model. Paying a mechanic is the best/only way to avoid getting ripped off.
Don’t know a mechanic? Vehicle owner forums have geographic sub-forums; look for mechanic suggestions or post a question.
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What about CarMax or dealers?
Useful if you have money burning a whole in your pocket. Prepare for an unpleasant, high pressure sales pitch. However, it’s a convenient place to look over different models: browse, don’t buy.
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Trust your gut!
If something doesn’t feel right, e.g., seller evades questions, pushes an immediate buying decision, or doesn’t know vehicle history or origin, thank seller for their time and move on to the next vehicle — there’s no shortage of used cars.
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Do you live in a hot market?
Hot market = overpriced cars
A better value might be nearby: take a bus to another market. Retirement cities/states have a glut of vehicles. This is how CarMax makes bank: buy in cheap markets, sell in expensive markets.
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Avoid vehicles from areas hit by recent flooding — Midwest, Southeast, etc.
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Never buy the 1st model year; wait 1+ years for manufacturer to ameliorate design and production issues.
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"Certified Pre-Owned" is a marketing gimmick; it only certifies the dealer will rip you off.
A mechanic inspected a so-called "certified pre-owned" vehicle and found dirty oil. If dealers don’t bother to change the oil, what credibility does "certified" have?
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If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
2. How to Find a Used Car
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Classifieds in owner club forums; craigslist
Forums host private classified ads that fly under the radar of search engines.
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Owner clubs have enthusiastic subject matter experts.
Owner clubs organize rides, meetups, autocrosses, etc. Attend one, introduce yourself, ask about their car, who their mechanic is, what they like/dislike, what they’ve had repaired. Tell them that you’re considering buying one; they might know of a vehicle for sale.
3. Questions for mechanic or seller
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Is the title in your name?
No? Walk away.
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Is it a salvage, refurbished, or reconditioned title?
Insurance company totaled the car; walk away.
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How many MIL (malfunction indicator lamp, a.k.a., "idiot light") trouble codes?
Advanced Auto and most auto parts stores will connect an OBD II scanner tool for free. A mechanic can tell you this, too.
Better: bring your own scan tool; use it to confirm owner didn’t erase codes.
4. Reference
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How to Find a Good Mechanic Near You, 2013 Scotty Kilmer
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How to Spot a Scam Mechanic, 2018 Scotty Kilmer
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Auto Repair Shops, Washington Consumers' Checkbook
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Using VIN, search for recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) on NHTSA.
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New Car Buying Advice from Consumer Reports — relevant to used cars, especially financing. Free access; for sections requiring a subscription, access via a library website using your library card.
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Used Car Buying Guide, Consumer Reports
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Used Car Marketplace, Consumer Reports — used prices, advice; check prices here before meeting seller.
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Buying Used Stuff, Consumers' Checkbook — Scroll down/search for "Car" section. Free access (other sections require subscription).
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5 Secrets to Buying a Cheap Used Car, Scotty Kilmer
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Never Buy a Car From CarMax, Scotty Kilmer
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Not all CarMax stores, dealers, and owners are honest; avoid getting scammed with these tips.
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How to Buy a Good Car (Car Buying Tips), Scotty Kilmer — Tips are spot on. Kelly Blue Book is fine in his depreciation example but actual vehicle value is less than KBB; don’t pay a KBB or Edmunds price. Consumer Reports prices might be more realistic but you can still pay less.
© 2019 Michael C. Smith
