Buying a Used Car
Buying used in the US isn't shark-infested, but there are standard moves at every step โ vehicle history report, independent inspection, title transfer, taxes. Follow the list and you won't get burned.
Budget beyond the sticker price
Out-the-door cost = price + sales tax (0โ10% by state) + registration/title fees + insurance. New-license premiums are steep ($150โ300/month is common) โ get insurance quotes before you buy, not after you've signed.
Pick reliable models; check market value
On a budget, used Toyotas/Hondas hold value and are cheap to fix. Check fair prices on KBB (kbb.com) and Edmunds, compare on Carfax/AutoTempest. A price clearly below market always has a reason.
Pull the vehicle history (VIN) report
With the VIN, check Carfax or AutoCheck: walk away from major accidents, salvage/flood titles, or odometer rollbacks. The title must be clean.
๐ฒ $25โ45 (many dealers provide it free)
Test drive
Listen on a cold start, brake at low speed, check for pulling at highway speed, do one hard stop, and press every button (especially A/C). If you viewed it in the rain, come back the next day and check underneath for leaks.
Pay for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI)
A must for private sales: take the car to an independent shop for a pre-purchase inspection. $100โ200 buys peace of mind โ it surfaces accident repairs and big-ticket issues. A seller who refuses a PPI is your cue to walk.
๐ฒ $100โ200
Negotiate
Use the KBB value, PPI findings, and comparable listings as leverage. Dealer "doc fees" are partly negotiable. If financing, negotiate the out-the-door total โ don't let the monthly payment steer you.
Payment and title transfer
For private sales use a cashier's check and close inside a bank. The seller signs the title over (some states require notarization); both parties complete a bill of sale and keep copies. Never accept "I'll mail you the title later."
Insure, register, get plates
Insurance must be active before you drive off (add the car by phone/app on the spot). Then register at the DMV within the deadline (usually 10โ30 days), pay sales tax, and get plates. Some states require a smog/safety inspection first.
โฑ Within 10โ30 days of transfer