Should You Buy a Used Car from a Dealer or Private Seller?

It happens sooner or later: you don’t just want a new/different car or truck, but you need one. Then you’re faced with figuring out whether to go to a car dealer or buy one from a private seller.

 

Car dealers are in the business of selling and leasing cars and trucks on a daily basis at a fixed location in the community, where people know them and they’re bound to Federal Trade Commission rules. If you choose to deal with a private seller, you’re dealing with an unknown person who may or may not have your best interests at heart. For all you know, the private seller could be lying to you, and you end up with a “lemon” and no recourse to get your money back when something goes majorly wrong.

 

Keep in mind that private sellers are selling vehicles “as is,” whereas dealers are able to offer warranties. Furthermore, with dealers you have trade options, such that you may be able to trade in your old car or truck and use some of that money toward the purchase of your new one– something you can’t do with private sellers.

 

With private sellers, you may have to travel a long distance just to see the car or truck you’re interested in, and you have to fit into the seller’s time schedule for this appointment. If you choose to purchase their vehicle, you’re responsible for a mound of paperwork, including things like title transfers, a bill of sale and registration documents.

 

Buying a car from a dealership offers a buyer more peace-of-mind, because dealers offer many benefits. For example, dealers can provide warranties on new or used vehicles, as well as financing options. They often have a large inventory to choose from, and they’re able to offer “certified cars” which have been inspected by professional mechanics and have a history on paper so you know specific details about the car or truck. Should a problem arise after buying from a dealer, take it right back and ask them to make it right! Finally, car dealerships can help a purchaser navigate and complete all the paperwork involved in acquiring a new vehicle.

 

In Lehighton, PA, 443 Auto Sales has almost 200 used cars to choose from– visit the dealership at 2848 Blakeslee Blvd. to see what’s currently available, and to talk with staffers who can help you in the car/truck buying process so you’ll have a good shopping experience.