How to negotiate & buy a used car. Love, Dad

Summary

This video offers comprehensive advice for purchasing a used car, emphasizing the importance of research and due diligence. It suggests checking the car's value, ensuring it's under warranty if possible, and visually inspecting the engine and tires. The script also covers pre-purchase checks, such as oil condition and fluid leaks, and advises on test driving and negotiating. It concludes with tips on handling paperwork and payment, and a personal plea for help with the speaker's daughter's medical condition.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Do thorough research on the car's value using resources like Blue Book or Kelley Blue Book to get an estimated price range.
• 🛡️ Consider buying a vehicle that's still under warranty to ensure coverage for potential major issues.
• 🔧 Check the engine's warmth, cleanliness, and oil condition as indicators of the seller's maintenance habits.
• 👀 Perform a visual inspection of the car's exterior for scratches, dents, and dings, and use a quarter to check tire tread depth.
• 📝 Bring a piece of cardboard to check for any oil or fluid leaks under the engine while the vehicle is running.
• 🚗 During the test drive, pay attention to the vehicle's starting ease, and check all lights and signals for functionality.
• 🔄 Ensure to test the heating and air conditioning systems, as well as power features like seats and windows, for proper operation.
• 🛣️ Take the car for an extended test drive to identify any mechanical issues that may arise during longer periods of operation.
• 🧐 Observe the vehicle's alignment, tire balance, and braking system performance during the test drive.
• 🗣️ When buying from a private seller, ask about the reason for selling and any known issues with the vehicle, and observe their responses.
• 📑 Ensure all paperwork, including the vehicle title, is in order and consider meeting in a public place for safety during the transaction.

Q & A

What is the first step suggested for researching the value of a used car or truck?

The first step is to spend time in front of the computer, using resources like Blue Book or NADA to look up the value of the car or truck based on the year, make, model, miles, and how it's equipped.

Why is it recommended to buy a vehicle that is still under warranty?

Buying a vehicle still under warranty is a safe decision because if any major issues arise, they will be covered by the warranty, reducing the buyer's financial risk.

What does a warm engine when inspecting a used car suggest about the vehicle?

A warm engine may suggest that the seller had trouble starting the vehicle, which could indicate potential problems.

Why is it important to check the cleanliness of the engine when buying a used car?

The cleanliness of the engine can indicate how well the vehicle has been maintained. A filthy engine may suggest that the owner did not take good care of the vehicle.

What does the color of the oil reveal about its condition when checking a used car?

If the oil is a light golden brown, it indicates fresh oil. If it's dark, it's dirty, which could be a sign of poor maintenance.

Why should you bring a quarter when inspecting the tires of a used car?

The quarter is used to check the tire tread depth. If you can see all of Washington's head in the tread, it suggests that new tires are needed, which should be factored into the purchase price.

What is the purpose of placing a piece of cardboard under the engine compartment before starting the vehicle?

The cardboard is used to check for any oil or fluid leaks. If there are leaks, they will drip onto the cardboard, making it easier to detect.

Why is it important to check the vehicle's lights and signals during the inspection?

Checking the lights and signals ensures that all are working properly, which is crucial for safety and could indicate electrical issues if they are not functioning.

What should you do before going on a test drive with a used car?

Before going on a test drive, you should check the brakes, set the seat and mirrors, ensure everyone is wearing a seatbelt, and make sure you understand all the controls, including the heat and AC.

What are some signs to look for during a test drive to indicate potential vehicle issues?

During a test drive, you should pay attention to the steering wheel for any pulls to one side, listen for any metal grinding sounds when braking, and check if the vehicle pulls to one side or the other during hard braking, which could indicate alignment or brake issues.

What two important questions should you ask a private seller when buying a used car?

You should ask why they are selling the car and if there is anything wrong with the vehicle that you should know about.

What is the advice regarding the payment method when buying a used car from a private seller?

It is advised not to bring cash for safety reasons. Instead, meet the seller at a bank or a public place like a police station parking lot if cash is necessary.

What are the pros and cons of buying a used car from a dealer versus a private seller?

Buying from a dealer is usually more expensive but provides quick and easy paperwork handling and safety. Buying from a private seller can offer a better deal but involves more risk and requires more caution.