How to buy a cheap used car

Buying a cheap used car is can be a difficult task. Some many people and so many dealerships have what they call "great deals." They promise that their cars are like new.

The key to buying a cheap used car is to know how to find one that won't break the bank but will last a long time. It's simple really. All it takes is a knowing where and how to look.

An important fact to understand is that no car is prefect, especially cheap ones. Used cars are what they are, used. They have scratches and dings, and may even have some mechanical problems. The following advice will help cheap used car buyers find what they want for the best deals.

First, anyone buying a car should set a price limit. The great thing about buying a cheap used car is that paying for it probably won't require a loan. Even if it does, it will be a small one. By setting a price limit, the buyer will be able to eliminate all cars that cost more, thus narrowing the search.

Second, ask friends. Find out where they bought their car and if they trusted the seller and how their car has lasted. This will only work with dealers. If the buyer knows someone that has bought from a specific dealer, it will be easier to judge whether or not the dealer is honest and sells good cars.

Third, look at several cars. Don't settle for the first polished car sitting on some old lady's driveway. She may have only driven it to church every Sunday, but she also may have never changed the oil and been hard on the brakes. Look in the paper, on the ad boards at the local college. Check online. The more avenues searched, the better idea the cheap used car buyer will have of what is out there.

Fourth, ask questions. Find out how often the owner changed the oil, how many people have owned the car. Ask if the car has been in any accidents. It's important to find out as much as possible to avoid problems down the road. The better the owner took care of the car, the better condition it will be in.

Fifth, take it to a mechanic. If the owner refuses this request, that is a sure sign something is wrong with the car. By taking it to the mechanic, one can find out what problems the car may have and if the asking price is too high. Get the mechanic to print out an official list of problems to show the owner and negotiate a lower price.

Last, check the cars history by going to www.carfax.com. The Web site asks for the vehicle identification number, which usually can be found on the dashboard. CarFax will provide information about previous accidents, damage, if the car was used as a police vehicle and information about how many people have owned the car. This report can ensure a car is worth the money or if the seller is being dishonest.

When choosing which cheap used car to buy, don't worry too much about looks. The most important thing about a car is that it runs well and that it will last. Worrying about what is inside the car can save a lot of money. A noticeable dent may be ugly, but a leaky air conditioner that wasn't detected until after buying the car will be much more of a headache to pay for. Looks can be deceiving. That is why research is the name of the game when purchasing a cheap used car. It can be the difference between a getting ripped off and finding that diamond in the rough.