Buying used can be a great way to get an affordable vehicle but consumers need to be cautious and do their home-work before they buy.
The Consumer Protection Division of the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) receives a signi铿乧ant number of complaints about used vehicle purchases every month. Buying a vehicle is a big purchase and it鈥檚 important for consumers to take steps to protect their own interests before handing over their money.
If a buyer finds a used vehicle they like, they should research the make and model, look for any recall notices, check the Vehicle Identi铿乧ation Number (VIN) and consider taking it to a trusted mechanic for an inspection. A mechanic may spot problems, damage or defects that could affect the decision to purchase.
Buyers can bring up any of these issues with the seller before finalizing a sale to negotiate for repairs or a lower price. Some dealers will provide a recent in-house inspection report.
If the problems with the vehicle are serious enough, consumers should feel free to pass on it. Used vehicles are typically a buyers鈥� market. It鈥檚 a good idea to sleep on big decisions and resist being pressured into a sale. If a price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
