Many consumers fall victim to dishonest dealers who misrepresent used vehicles; from tampered odometer to rebuilt vehicles.  This is one of the main reasons why we should protect ourselves and do our due diligence prior to purchasing any used vehicle.  Below are some of the things to consider the next time you’re in the market for a used vehicle.

Vehicle history – it is important to know if the vehicle has been involved in any accident, junked, salvage, rebuilt or stolen.  As a buyer you have the right to know what type of vehicle you’re about to purchase.

Proper Inspection - make sure the vehicle is inspected by a certified technician.  Have them check for any signs of leakage or accident.

Odometer Reading – some sellers turn odometers back to get more profit for the vehicle.  According to AutoFacts one in ten vehicles has this discrepancy (both U.S. and Canada). You can protect yourself by obtaining a complete vehicle history report.

Vehicle’s Registration – make sure the vehicle you are buying is registered in the name of the seller.  Also ensure that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) that appears on the registration matches the one found in the dashboard.

Outstanding Liens - finding out if there is a secured 3rd interest on the vehicle you want to purchase is very important prior to purchasing the vehicle.

Recalls - to find out if your vehicle has any outstanding recall, you may visit the Transport Canada website. The information on their database is based on makes and models and not VIN specific.  If you want to obtain a recall information based on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle an Auto Facts vehicle history will provide you that information.

Avoid “Curbsiders” – pose as private individuals, but are actually in the business of selling vehicles that are damaged, stolen, odometer-tampered or have liens against them (OMVIC).  Check for the UCDA logo at your local dealer.  You may also visit the UCDA website to confirm that the seller is a licensed dealer.

Never Pay Cash – make sure to pay with a certified cheque or a bank draft with the seller listed as payee.  This will ensure that you have a record of payment.

Warranty – ask for at least a 30-90 day warranty if you’re buying from a dealer.  Make sure the warranty is documented and never take any verbal commitment from the seller.

Sources:

http://www.apa.ca/template.asp?DocID=136
http://www.omvic.on.ca/news/archives/news_releases_archive/news_release_2004-02.htm
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/recalls/search_e.asp
hhttp://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20070427/wfive_apasurvey_070427/20070428?hub=WFive
http://www.ucda.org/index.html
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080307/wfive_apa_080307/20080307?hub=WFive
http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/tips/usedcars.html
https://www.carproof.com/Default.asp