Checklist - Basics of Dealer Reputation and Pricing

Preferably you will deal with an individual, or a company that specializes in certain cars such as ex-rental cars (if under 30,000 miles).
But if you can't or see a possible deal or car you especially like at a dealer, here are some tips on selecting a dealer.

Start with this List of Basics. (See Disclaimer Below

First use the Best Used Cars page to decide on a couple of brands.

Dealers usually specialize somewhat in domestic versus foreign.

• Give a higher weight to a dealer who does specialize somewhat.
• Be sure the dealer has a good service department.
• Check online locally such as on Google for reviews or complaints.
• Use most of the "buying guide" (how to buy a used car) to examine the car, even when dealing with a dealer.
• You should aleady have in hand some prices from Kelly Blue Book or similar and local ads.
• Compare the dealer's listed prices to those published prices.
• Note whether the dealer focuses upon newer or older cars and whether they may be from leasing or rental companies.
• Prefer a reputable major dealer who does not want a nice-looking competing brand or model on their lot (trade ins).
• Don't dress up much; look a bit poor and see how they treat you.
• Note the professionalism and lack of pressure of a salesperson-Are they helpful and answer detailed questions?
• Note that few will offer any warranty on a used car, so if you want one, be sure it is clear and in writing (Don't expect much time of the warranty, perhaps 90 days).
• Note whether the dealer puts prices on the window, even if on a sheet of paper; Most companies proud of their pricing would put prices.
• But don't believe that just because prices are on the window that they are good.
• Although they may in fact have to "ask their manager", don't buy from a dealer who plays games and pressures you.
• Be sure they welcome your thorough examination and testing of vehicles.
• Ask what is the cheapest car on the lot and compare to published prices, then work up, setting the tone (it will probably be a bit dented or ugly or run poorly. Ask why it is cheaper).
• Ask lots of questions and expect good answers, especially asking about serious defects.

Good luck and happy car buying.

DISCLAIMER and TERMS OF USE OF SITE: By your use of this site, you agree to to this disclaimer and hold the author, his associates and company harmless for all circumstances related hereto whatsoever. Use of this site and information is solely AT YOUR OWN RISK. This list and our Buying Guide Checklist is NOT a guarantee of any kind whatsoever, but merely the educated opinion of the author and nothing more. You agree and understand by use of any information herein provided that testing a car can be dangerous and involves driving an unfamiliar vehicle while trying to do more than just drive. You agree to be very careful around any running engine or moving parts. The vehicle can lurch if not careful. Do your own due diligence and verify everything. No one can guarantee performance of a used vehicle without thorough personal inspection, and a real guarantee is provided by a warranty company, a form of insurance. We do not sell or offer any warranty nor insurance. We suggest that if you want a warranty, you buy one from one of the companies that offer warranties, if avaialble.