Used Car Finance

The Vehicle History

Naturally, if a compact car collides with a large pickup truck, the occupants in the smaller car will be much more likely to suffer injury. Also, depending on the speed at impact, the little automobile will probably be totaled.

However, most people don’t realize that the safety and integrity of a vehicle can be severely compromised, if it has been in a prior accident.  Even after the car has been fixed to look as good as new, it will be less likely to protect the occupants, if the automobile is involved in a second accident.

Unless the buyer knows exactly what to look for, it can be very difficult to know if a pre-owned car has ever been in a serious wreck.  Unfortunately, they only discover the truth when the car buckles uncharacteristically on impact with another car.

Therefore, it’s important to check the vehicle history, before purchasing a used car.  In some cases, the current owner or dealer will be honest and let potential buyers know the background of the car.  However, they are under no legal obligation to disclose the true condition of the car, unless asked directly. Some people will avoid disclosure, because they really want to get rid of the car.

So, it is incumbent on the buyer to discover the vehicle history.  Fortunately, there are programs that will reveal the history of a used car, as long as the potential buyer has the vehicle identification number.  Once the number is submitted, a program will access any accident records that may be of file, since accident reports are required to include the VIN.

Although it means not buying a used car on the spot, knowing whether the car is as safe today as when it was brand new is very important.  Every car on the road carries precious cargo.  If the frame has been bent, and the car isn’t structurally sound, it’s time to look for a different used car.

The True Value

While it vital to make sure a used car is structural sound, it’s also important to make sure the vehicle is worth the money being paid.  Even if it has never been in an accident, it might become an endless expense.  While many, and maybe even most, previously owned cars on the road are a good deal, there are those automobiles that only look good on the outside.  

After the seller cashes the check and spends the money, the buyer discovers that the gas mileage is deplorable.  In addition, it leaks oil all over the driveway; and, when you travel, it’s necessary to have extra cans of the lubricant on hand.  Otherwise, the motor will burn up, and the only thing that will move the car after that is a tow truck.

Of course, this is only an example of how a buyer might purchase a headache, rather than a dependable mode of transportation. It’s only one possible reason why it’s imperative to have an independent mechanic look the car over, before making a purchase.  If the seller will not agree, it time to look elsewhere for a good used car.

Unfortunately, it’s important to exercise this right, whether the car is being purchased from a private owner or a car dealership.  Even if the salesperson states that their mechanic has gone over the car, while cleaning it thoroughly, it’s still a good idea to request the opinion of a third party. He/she will have no interest in selling the car. The paycheck is the same, regardless of what they discover, when going over the car.

In short, when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, safety and value are the two most important factors to look for when buying a used car.  No matter how good the car looks or how awesome the ride, the car will not meet manufacturer safety standards in an accident, if the frame has already been irreparably damaged in a previous collision.  Also, why pay more than the car is worth, just because it looks good.  Most communities have a surplus of used cars for sale.  Have another look and buy a used car that is both fairly priced and meets safety standards.  The occupants are worth it.