Getting Started (5)
Selling and buying used cars is something most of us do probably once every five years. Whether it’s your first time buying or selling a used car (or your 50th) take a moment to brush up with this handy advice.
Glossary (11)
The language of used cars can be confusing at times, especially if, like most folks, you’re not well-informed about cars and their nature in general. We’ll explain everything from CarFax to escrow to vehicle identification numbers to help illuminate the used car buying and selling process.
Buying Online (6)
Don’t rely on newspaper classifieds – online listings are the best place to start your used car search. We’ll show the best avenues for purchasing your next car online as we explain auction sites, used car sites, and other Internet avenues. You’ll be amazed how quickly you can find the car of your dreams at a price you can afford.
Certified Pre-Owned (7)
Certified pre-owned certainly sounds official but it means different things at different manufacturers with no one set standard. You can find problems with certified pre-owned vehicles. We’ll explain what certified pre-owned means, what the different companies offer, and what the pros and cons are to buying certified pre-owned, as well as linking you directly to the various manufacturers’ sites.
Deal or No Deal (5)
Used car deals – good and bad – are out there and About.com can tell you how to find them. Cars that didn’t generate a lot of buzz new can be good values three years down the road. Also, over-hyped new cars are sometimes used car nightmares with unrealistic prices.
The Test Drive (5)
No two cars are alike – but every test drive should be. We’ll point out what to do after you’ve completed a thorough interior and exterior inspection. Follow our step-by-step used car inspection process and you’ll drive away with confidence.
Used Car Histories (5)
It’s impossible to know 100% of a used car’s history – even when buying from somebody you know. Great tools exist for tracking a car’s background in general as well as a specific vehicle. We’ll take you step-by-step through a CARFAX report and then show you other great tools for finding out more about the used car you’re buying.
Safety Ratings (6)
Excellent sources of information exist out there going back many years for safety ratings on used cars. We’ll show you how to compile and understand the information to ensure you make an informed choice – and stay away from potential nightmares.
Financing (5)
Used car financing is not like new car financing. Interest rates are higher and loan terms are shorter but your credit doesn’t have to be perfect to get behind the wheel. We’ll get you the right information to decide among paying cash, bank loans, credit union loans, Internet loans, leasing, and more.
Selling Online (5)
You can cast a wide net on the Internet to sell your used car. In some cases it’s free or much less expensive than your local newspaper’s classifieds – and you can reach millions of people. We’ll explain the pros and cons of online auction sites, automotive trade sites and other Internet alternatives.
Sell or Trade In (5)
Here’s the age-old dilemma when buying a new (to you) car: sell your used car yourself or trade it in to the dealer (and don’t forget donating to charity). There’s no one set answer, but we’ll help you explore your used cars options from many different angles to make the right choice for your situation.
Prep for Sale (5)
For most of us, our car is the most expensive thing we’ll ever try to sell ourselves. Let’s get the most value for you by showing you how to document your vehicle, getting it checked from top to bottom, and even showing you how to fix blemishes that could be hindering its sale.
Setting a Value (5)
No two cars are identical but excellent tools exist for pinpointing the value of a used car either for sale or purchase. Avoid getting ripped off by taking the same steps professionals do when appraising a vehicle. Follow our step-by-step processes and walk away a confident consumer.
Research (9)
Most people don’t do enough research when it comes time to buy a used car. It’s a shame because it’s become so easy to do thanks to the Internet. Learn the right tools for getting just the right package of options and features on your next used car.
Avoiding Problems (5)
Not all cars are created equal. Some are going to give you more problems than others. Let us give you some pointers on spotting current and potential problems with that used car you’ve been eyeing.