Tips for buying a used car

A used car. Three words that scare anyone who needs to buy one. Am I paying too much? Am I buying a problem? Am I being charged more than it's worth? Can I trust in the documents they are giving me?

The list of questions with doubts about the car can be many, but not everything has to be so negative and to solve the problem Consumer Reports understand about it, so here are the 10 safest tactics to protect yourself from used car dealers.

1. Find out the car's value.

Knowing the real value of the used car you have in mind, regardless of the amount the seller is asking, is the first tool to pay a fair price. The car condition, mileage, age, equipment levels and the region of the country, are all factors that affect the value of the car. Different price guides can list printed values​, which may differ widely. Avoids the cheating game by asking the seller to use a single guide to determine the car's value for sale and the value of any vehicle you are offering in return.

2. Write your questions.

Be prepared with a list of questions about the car and check them off as answered to your satisfaction. Make sure they answer all your doubts.

3. Do not show your money.

The dealer does not need to know anything about your finances during the negotiation process. Do not tell him how much money you can spend on buying a used car, or they will try to sell you the most expensive car you can buy.

4. Stay focused on the topic.

Never let the seller to change the direction of the conversation to matters different than the purchase of the car. Salespeople often hide the answer to an important question, for example the history and price of the used car, changing the subject of the conversation.

5. Do not let them hurry you.

The sellers favorite customers are those who are in a hurry, as they are those who tend to not inspect the car thoroughly or do not negotiate the price. Never go to a dealer acting as if you were in a hurry, although you need a car immediately, because they will take advantage of that. Many sellers say they will not push you to hurry in your purchase, but they often do it anyway. If you feel the seller is hurrying you, tell him you will come back another day. If by then the car you were interested has been sold, remember that there are many other used cars for sale.

6. Be prepared to leave.

Once you have gotten a price you think is right, make your offer clearly, and don't say anything else. If the seller does not give way, go. You should not pay more than what you have found out about the real value of the used car. If you go to the door, usually they will offer you a better deal before you get to it.

7. Beware of expensive accessories.

A service contract, engraving in the windows, a protective layer of the bottom of the car and paint sealants they are unnecessary accessories that only help the dealership to maximize its profits. Do not buy any.

8. Check the vehicle history.

Instead of believing the seller about the history and condition of the car, get a history report from CarFax or Experian Automotive. They can provide you information about possible fraud, disclose flood damage, fire, and other accident damages, or say if it is a rebuilt title, salvage or recycling car was issued for that car ever. But remember that a good record is no guarantee that car has no hidden problems.

9. Visit a mechanic.

After make an offer, but before you sign the sales agreement, take the car to a qualified mechanic that do routine diagnostic work. Do not let the dealer tell you they have inspected the car for you. Deduct the cost of repairs necessary that the mechanic had found of the offer you have made.

10. Get to the dealer with your financing insured.

Go to a bank or credit union and make to get approved for a loan before going to the dealer. The seller may try to improve the interest rate you have gotten, which is an advantage for you. If you consider these ten recommendations, you will have no problem when buying a used car and especially you will be satisfied with your decision.