I'm thinking about buying a car off a person I don't know very well, what are the main things to check? Should I get a professional to look at it first-and if so what would they generally be checking??

Try this site:

http://www.used-car-advisor.com

It has a section with tips on used car buying.

Good luck.

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Comments so far:

1. by TheChosenOne on July 14th, 2008 at 12:50 am

   yes get a professional to look at specifically the safety features. Someone died because of buying a used car and the seller replaced the airbag with grocery bags.
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2. by Lozza on July 14th, 2008 at 12:51 am

   Have a mechanic look over it to see if everything is sound mechanically. But as for you, just look for the small things like scratches in the paint, mileage etc.
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3. by "Shots" on July 14th, 2008 at 12:52 am

   take it to a shop like goodyear or frestone and tell them you want to buy the car and need it inspected for obvious flaws. the check should be free, i used to work for both. they will tell you everything wrong and how much it will cost to fix it. Of course the dealer would be best if you are willing to pay the price.
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4. by JJ on July 14th, 2008 at 12:53 am

   Similar things to a new car but more closely…

   You should have a pro mechanic check it out for your own sake!

   If you like it only agree to purchase subject to a professional roadworthy check…where I live approx $60 but worth it to prevent buying a lemon.

   Find out if it has been in ANY type of accident- what was the outcome for the car eg parts replaced or repaired?

   Check the log book for regular service and maintainance

   Check the km

   Check tyres including the spare and tool kit

   If applicable check if then fan belt has been replaced or is in need of replacement.

   Test drive and check for unusual noises, acceleration, if parking is easy, how the steering is and if it has a good turn circle.

   there is many more, but these were the most important for me.Good luck!
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5. by Mike P on July 14th, 2008 at 12:57 am

   To be honest, I'd not buy a car from this person. Your warranty is probably nill so if you buy a lemon good luck and older cars are generally ones that have problems after awhile. I'd say expect two years at best before serious problems start–transmission, motor, etc. It's been my experience that two years is a good run for a used car and then the trouble begins with repairs.

   I'd defianately have someone look at the car which you seem to want to do. If they have any inclinations to not buy it then don't.

   In the long run, you are better off going with a car dealer as you'll have a warranty of sorts if something goes wrong right away. Buying it from Joe Off-the-street is risky and most likely will be a problem if the car is a lemon. Believe me, used cars are always much more dicey beause they are used. They are more prone to problems because they are used. Why do you think your friend here–Joe Off-the-Street–wants to sell it to you? If he had some great car do you really think he'd want you to have it? Beware here, my friend. Tread carefully about this purchase.
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6. by TaylorProud on July 14th, 2008 at 2:59 am

   If you can get someone with more mechanical experience it is helpful.
   Ask if you can drive it to a nearby place and have it inspected.
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7. by Brown C on July 14th, 2008 at 3:04 am

   try this source http://www.carloan123.net/Be-Prepared-for-the-Problems-in-Used-Car-Financing-with-Solutions.html may you find helpful information regarding used cars.
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8. by SoNoFcM on July 14th, 2008 at 4:51 am

   Try this site:

   http://www.used-car-advisor.com

   It has a section with tips on used car buying.

   Good luck.
   References :

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