Down And Dirty Tricks Individuals Use To Sell Their Vehicles
When you are in the market for a new car, turning to other people trying to dispose of their old ride may seem like a cost-effective option. While it is true that getting a used vehicle from an individual off the street can sometimes save you on initial investment costs, it is not always wise to buy a car from someone you do not know. There are some pretty shady people out there that will go to great lengths to land your money right in their pocket. Here are a few down and dirty tricks you should be aware of when you check out local listings.
The Replaced Motor Claim
In the pictures the odometer clearly shows that the motor has well over 200,000 miles, but the listing claims that the motor was replaced, and therefore, the vehicle is almost as good as new. Unfortunately, there are sellers that use this tactic to make people believe that the vehicle they are getting is more mechanically sound than what it appears. After all, the main component of any vehicle is its engine and if a certain car has a new one, you would think all is good. If a seller makes this claim, you need to ask for proof that there was an actual motor purchased for the vehicle you are considering. Further, you should know how many miles were on a motor before it was put into the car.
The Boosted Price Practice
Instead of stopping in at the local Dodge dealer, you decide that skimming the ads online for a used Stratus or Ram is a better option. While you get your eyes full of used vehicles, you spot that perfect ride, but the price is well above your budget. What you may not know is some sellers will boost their asking price dramatically to allow room for negotiation, making you feel like you are getting one heck of a deal when they meet you several thousand dollars off of what they were originally asking. Keep in mind that even if it seems like you are getting a good deal, it is always best to know the value of any vehicle you plan to buy.
When it comes down to it, you cannot always rely on what individuals tell you about a car they are trying to pass on to someone else. Shopping with reputable dealers is always a better choice, even when shopping for a used vehicle.