Consumer Car Buying Advice Blog

A recent list of New Year resolutions for used car buying from Carfax lists information that could be especially helpful to used car buyers with credit issues

We know poor credit

Car shoppers with less than perfect credit typically choose used cars to finance because they’re more affordable. But in doing so they’re also taking chances since these vehicles are typically not covered by the various state lemon laws.

Here at Auto Credit Express we understand the importance of knowing exactly what you’re buying, especially when it comes to used cars, because we’ve spent more than two decades helping consumers with poor credit scores find new car dealers that can give them their best opportunities for approved car loans. It’s also why we continue to offer advice on topics ranging from BHPH dealerships to today’s subject, having confidence in the used car you’re buying.

Hidden problems

One reason credit-challenged car buyers have problems with high-risk car loans is due to the fact that down the road they are sometimes faced with major vehicle expenses as a result of hidden damage in the used car they’re financing. In most cases this is because that they were unaware the true condition of the car they were buying.

We were reminded of this recently when Carfax issued a press release listing a number of New Year resolutions for used car buyers.

Five resolutions to help consumers

Consumers are expected to purchase well over 40 million used cars in 2013. While many used cars are safe and reliable, some with problems like odometer fraud, non-working airbags and flood damage are sold to unsuspecting buyers. Now is the time for used car buyers to start protecting themselves when they’re out shopping in the New Year.

Carfax offers these five resolutions to help consumers avoid common scams and buy used cars with more confidence:

•    I will spend wisely. Consider manufacturer-backed Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars, which offer many new car benefits at used car prices. Be wary of cars with ‘too good to be true’ prices.
•    I will check documents. A common rip-off involves unpaid liens, so make sure the seller provides the title along with other important paperwork prior to sale. Service records help buyers evaluate a car’s condition, while the registration and an insurance card can prove ownership.
•    I will ask the seller questions. Have the seller verify details about things like the car’s origin, the reason(s) for selling it and any problems they’ve experienced with the car. Don’t get pressured by someone wanting a quick sale.
•    I will get a Carfax Report. All the used car information in a Carfax Vehicle History Report, such as registration details, open recalls, mileage history and other used car buying tips can help you avoid costly scams and safety issues. Visit http://www.carfax.com/dealers to find dealers near you that provide free Carfax Reports.
•    I will consult an expert. The trained eye of a trusted mechanic or body shop technician, combined with a Carfax Report, can help identify potential problems.

“As the demand for used cars continues to rise, so do the opportunities for scam artists to prey on unsuspecting victims,” said Larry Gamache, communications director at Carfax. “Sticking to these resolutions this year and in the years ahead can help protect you and your investment. Shop smart and buy confident.”

The Bottom Line

If you have bad credit and you’re thinking of purchasing a used car in the New Year to help rebuild your car credit, we suggest you consider these five resolutions from Carfax.

Another thing we suggest you consider: if you do have poor credit, Auto Credit Express specializes in helping these consumers find new car dealers for their best chance at car loan approvals.

So if you’re serious about getting your auto credit back on track, you can begin now by filling out our online car loans application.

Tags: Bad Credit, carfax, Used Cars

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