What to Check for When Buying Used Cars

Buying a used car seems like a risky proposition. If you are not prepared, you can drive away with a vehicle that is going to be nothing but headaches for you. A shiny coat of paint is not the best way to judge the condition of a used car. Here are a few tips that can help protect you when buying a used car.

It is always better to go to a car dealership when looking for a used car. Individuals selling cars may offer great prices, but it’s a lot harder to get back to them if something is seriously wrong with the vehicle. They are more likely to try to cover up major problems with the vehicle as well. Usually, those situations end up in court. A dealership depends on its reputation, and will do everything it can to make sure its vehicles are as advertised.

If you are going to an auto dealer, or to look at a privately owned vehicle, be sure to make a checklist before leaving home. The checklist should include all the parts of the vehicle you need to check to make sure they are in working order. Without a list, it is too easy to overlook some of the more important elements on the vehicle. When you are looking at that shiny roadster, it’s easy to forget about checking the windshield wipers, or the door handles. It’s best to ask a mechanic for a thorough list of inspection points.

Don’t even think about purchasing a vehicle without being able to take it for a test drive. Make sure you are the one driving, as well. Be sure to ask the last time the vehicle was serviced, and ask for a maintenance record if they have one. See if the seller/dealer will be checking the fluid levels and filter conditions before purchase, as well.

Before signing any papers, make sure you are familiar with state laws regarding vehicles in poor conditions. The “lemon” laws will protect you in some cases, but you have to be aware of their specific conditions. Ask about refund policies, and be sure to read the sales documents carefully. If you are buying from an individual, make sure you get a receipt, and that you have some form of contract to sign.

These are a few tips to help you when shopping for a used car. Your biggest allies are common sense and preparation. Never be afraid to think about an offer if you are not sure. Better to miss out on a car than to get stuck with a pile of junk.

Author: Robert Panosetti @ Articlecity

Choosing The Car Model That's Right For You

There are car models made for just about every need under the sun and many of them cross over into other model types. Choosing the car model that best suits you can be a daunting task. You must first define your wants and needs, and then choose a car based on these specifications. 

As well as model choices, the extra features of each vehicle type should also be considered in your selection. What kind of engine do you need? Petrol, diesel, or hybrid power? Do you need economy or hauling power? What type of transmission - automatic, manual or auto-manual? How about sound systems, air-conditioning, and optional upholstery? The basic vehicle package often won't include many optional extras that you want, so you may have to outlay more money to ensure you get the features you want.

Features aside, what car is going to be right for you? Here's a brief run-down on some popular car models and their main features:

Economy or Small Car – This model is typically a small two-door hatchback or small car. These types of vehicle offer great basic transportation and generally deliver good fuel mileage. They are great "city cars" and are ideal for short trips with up to four passengers. 

Economy Crossover – These vehicle models have a more functional body type - think "station wagon". They generally have a good fuel mileage, and can carry four or five passengers as well as stow some gear. Economy Crossover's are more costly that the economy small car, but are a lot more functional.

Compact SUV – These cars are designed for more rugged use. The compact SUV often has four-wheel-drive and can handle less than favorable road conditions, but are not designed for heavy off-road use. There are some trade-offs in fuel economy and higher base prices when compared to crossovers or small cars.

Mid-sized Coupe or Sedan – The Coupe has bigger dimensions, more interior space, more comfort for passengers and better for longer trips. This model can be economical with appropriate engine and transmission choices. The base models will often have more accessories and luxury features but the cost is generally higher than more compact car models.

Mid-sized SUV – This is like the compact SUV, but with larger dimensions and is more appropriate for off-road usage, towing and other heavy-duty activities. The mid-sized SUV can comfortably carry four of five passengers and their gear on long distance trips. The big downside of the mid-sized SUV is the fuel consumption – particularly as we see fuel prices and global warming concerns on the rise.

People Movers – these van-types of vehicles have large interior spaces and generally seat five to eight passengers, plus storage space. The People Mover is suitable for longer trips or transporting the kids' sports teams and all their equipment. Again they are not as economical as the small car, but they are far more appropriate for large families or frequent transportation of groups.

Sports Cars – Small, high-performance vehicles that usually only carry two people comfortably, but can sometimes carry up to four. Sports cars have minimal storage space and are a fun drive for the auto enthusiast, but are not that practical for a family.

Large Coupes, Sedans and SUVs – These large car models are like the mid-sized, but with larger dimensions and are generally even less fuel efficient.

So what car model is right for you? You may picture yourself in the sports car, but if you are a family of four then that choice isn't very practical. Your vehicle selection should be made based upon your general needs, not the occasional ones. If there is room in your budget for some self indulgence, then maybe a second car could answer more of your "wants" and less of your "needs."

Author: Hugh McInnes @ Articlesbase