Should you buy a car from a private individual instead of a dealer?

Private Car Sales vs. Buying from a Dealer

Buying a used car from a private seller is very different from buying a car from a dealer. Private sellers generally are not covered by the Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule and don't have to use the Used Car Buyers Guide. However, you can use the Guide's list of an auto's major systems as a shopping tool. You also can ask the seller if you can have a car inspection done by your mechanic.

Private sales usually are not covered by the implied warranties of state law. That means a private sale probably will be on an "as is" basis, unless your purchase agreement with the seller specifically states otherwise. If you have a written contract, the seller must live up to the promises stated in the contract. The car also may be covered by a manufacturer's warranty or a separately purchased service contract. However, warranties and service contracts may not be transferable, and other limits or costs may apply. Before you buy the car, ask to review its warranty or service contract.

Many states do not require individuals to ensure that their vehicles will pass state inspection or carry a minimum warranty before they offer them for sale. Ask your state Attorney General's office or local consumer protection agency about the requirements in your state.

Here are more opinions and answers from WikiAnswers Contributors:

• The previous person's statements are right on the mark. Private used cars have no warranty, and if the car turns out to be a lemon, you waste even more money trying to get your original car payment back in a small claims court.

• Here is a dealer's perspective: Be careful with both!! Do you homework - carfax, KBB, eBay. Check prices. Getting a car from a dealer at Private Party price is often a good deal. Less - better ask questions. Please note Carfax, Auto Check will not always show if a car has been in an accident - so have them checked out before you buy. Almost 100% of used cars sold by a dealership will have had paintwork done (and many new ones too)- so that may not always be a useful question to ask. Better to look or inspect. Do you see poorly done work? Check hidden areas for "ridges" to indicate paint that may not have been done well. A note on extended warranties. Buy cars that are at the end of their factory warranty. This cheaper time to get an extended warranty.

• There is an advantage with both. If you buy on a private individual you can get a good buy but be sure that the car is well conditioned ask an expert to check the motor etc. while in buying from a dealer you can have good quality cars and you have a proper papers for the car and warranty just be sure to buy from a registered car dealer.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by TeewhY08. Contributor trust: 6 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 260 [recommend question]