Things to know before buying a used car

  • Published
  • By Capt. Andrew Norton
  • Eglin Law Center
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Buying a used car should be a calculated decision made only after taking the time to consider all of your options. 

Despite the carnival-like atmosphere at some used car dealerships, buying a car should not be an impulse purchase like cotton candy or a funnel cake. An automobile is a big purchase and should only be made after considering all of the available information. This helps increase your chances to get the best deal possible.

A few common misconceptions among buyers of used cars are that a "cooling off" period or "lemon-laws" will protect them if something is wrong with the car. Dealers are not required by law to give used car buyers a right to a refund if they return the car within a few days. The right to return the car in a few days for a refund exists only if the dealer grants this privilege to buyers, in the contract. 

Before you purchase from a dealer, make sure you understand the dealer's return policy and get it in writing. In Florida, lemon laws only apply to the purchase of brand new vehicles and offer no protection to purchasers of used cars. The sale of a used car is protected only by the warranty coverage included in the Used Car Buyer's Guide.

A Used Car Buyer's Guide must be included in the sale of every used car by a dealer. The Buyer's Guide must tell you: (1) whether the vehicle is being sold "As Is" or with a warranty; (2) that spoken promises are difficult to enforce and to get all promises in writing; (3) the Buyer's Guide is part of the sale contract and to keep the it for reference after the sale; and (4) to ask to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy. 

When a car is sold with an "As Is" warranty, the box on the Buyer's Guide that reads "As Is - No Warranty" must be checked and usually eliminates any and all responsibility of the dealer if something goes wrong with the car after you sign the contract. Even if the dealer tells you he will make repairs, make sure you get that promise in writing or it will not be enforceable. There is a reason the Buyer's Guide requires the dealer to inform the buyer of their right to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic. Often for under $50.00 you can get a full vehicle inspection at an auto repair shop, well worth the money to ensure you are getting a fair deal. Remember, the dealer's mechanic is not working for you.

Before making any purchase a buyer should always test drive the car in various conditions, get the maintenance record from the dealer, and check the dealer's reputation with local or state consumer protections groups. And remember, don't buy anything you can't afford, a car is an expense not an investment. 

You can find more information and helpful tips on the internet by searching for tips on how to buy a used car or going to the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Protection website, www.ftc.gov, or the Florida Attorney General's website, www.myfloridalegal.com.