{"id":352660,"date":"2016-04-04T10:42:05","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:42:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/consumer\/lemon-law\/tips-for-buying-a-used-car.html"},"modified":"2024-01-15T14:59:19","modified_gmt":"2024-01-15T19:59:19","slug":"tips-for-buying-a-used-car","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/lemon-law\/tips-for-buying-a-used-car.html","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Buying a Used Car"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Tips for Buying a Used Car<\/h1>\n
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\n By Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

There are a few reasons you may choose to buy a used car instead of a new one. Used cars<\/a> are less expensive and may still drive and feel like new. They also do not depreciate as quickly as new cars. This slower rate of depreciation means you can recover more of the purchase price if you decide to trade in or sell it later.<\/p>\r\n

However, every used car comes with a history, and used vehicles may have more mechanical issues than new vehicles.<\/p>\r\n

Purchasing a pre-owned car comes with unique pros and pitfalls. The tips below will guide you through the purchase process and help you get a safe and reliable vehicle at the best price.<\/p>\r\n

Evaluate Your Budget and Driving Habits<\/h2>\r\n

Buying a used car is just as time-consuming and expensive as buying a new car<\/a>. Start your car-buying process by carefully considering your driving habits. This will help you determine the vehicle you need. Ask yourself how you will primarily use the car. Some questions to consider include:<\/p>\r\n