Buying a Used Car From a Private Seller

Start The Car

May sound so simple, but don’t just start the car and immediately take it for a test drive. Turn the vehicle on and make sure that all the dashboard warning lights turn on. If they do not, or if they stay on, make sure that the issue is resolved before you purchase the vehicle. Did the car start easily (on the first crank) or did it take a few tries. Did you hear any noises (like whirring or buzzing), it could be a bad starter.

When the vehicle first starts, do you smell unusual odors or is there smoke coming from the exhaust? What was the engine temperature gauge at? By pre-warming a car (before you show up), an owner can hide some of these warning signs.

Let the Car Warm Up

As you are initially talking to the owner, stay outside next to the car and let the car idle for a while and warmup. Listen to the engine, is it running smoothly, or do the rpm’s seem to be inconsistent (slow down and then speed up)?

Inspect the Vehicle Yourself

You do not have to be a certified mechanic to spot signs of damage. Before you even take a test drive, look over the car and see if it passes a few of these simple tests.

Look at the vehicle’s exterior for signs of rust, dents or scratches. Keep an eye out for uneven panels and uneven paint. This could indicate that the car was damaged and not repaired properly. Open and close all the doors, trunk, and hood to make sure they function normally. Are there any cracks in the windshield or other windows? Check the tread on the tires, are the tires old with no tread left, or does the tread have an uneven wear pattern (which could mean the car needs an alignment or a more serious problem like worn shocks and struts).

Once you have checked over the exterior, sit inside the vehicle and look for rips or stains in the upholstery, headliner and dashboard. Do all the electronics work (radio, Bluetooth, backup cameras etc.). Pay attention to any musty smells or water stains, which could indicate a leak or prior water damage.

Go for a Test Drive

If you do not know the seller, ask to see a photo ID, take a picture of the ID and send it to a friend for safety reasons. If possible, test drive the vehicle on different types of roads (side roads and highway) and at different speeds. One trick an owner may use is stating that the car has no registration and no insurance, so it would be best to just drive locally around the neighborhood, or not drive it at all. Do not fall for this trick. You need to drive the car to see if it is worth the purchase price.

As you drive the car, verify that the windshield wipers (and fluid), air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, signals, lights, locks and cruise control work as they should. Are there any warning lights that are showing? When driving, briefly take your hands off the steering wheel to see if the vehicle pulls to the side. Upon heavy braking at higher speeds (exiting off the freeway), does the car pull to the left or right?

Slow Down + Speed Up + Listen!

As you drive the vehicle, take your time, don’t be rushed by the owner. Even though it may be 110 degrees outside, roll down all the windows and listen (turn off the radio and the air conditioning), do you hear any odd noises (grinding, squealing, creaking etc.) coming from the engine, brakes or suspension?

Pro Tip:

Try driving next to a large flat brick wall, it will reflect sounds back and make it easier to hear any noises coming from the car.

Protect Yourself From Fraud

Look at the car’s mileage and consider whether the level of wear is consistent with what you would expect. If the car’s mileage is low but you notice a lot of wear on the steering wheel, upholstery, gas and brake pedals, the seller may have illegally manipulated the odometer.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Have a trusted mechanic (that you, not the seller, chooses) look over the vehicle. Having an objective third party mechanic check out the vehicle before money changes hands can save you from serious trouble in the future. Book an appointment with a local mechanic and drive the vehicle there during the test drive to let them look it over. Even if the dealership has a free return policy, returning the car can be a hassle.

If the mechanic says the car is in good shape, consider buying it. If it is not, use that as leverage to lower the purchase price, or not purchase it at all. If the seller objects to having a mechanic look over the car, then you may want to find another vehicle.

Buying A Car Out Of State

Buying a car from a seller in your own town may be the most convenient option but, going out of state may be inevitable if you want something specific. Gathering as much information as possible and knowing state-specific rules can help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Know Your State’s Vehicle Inspection Requirements

In Nevada, only residents in Clark and Washoe Counties are required to have their vehicle inspected regularly for things such as safety and emissions. Other states such as California and Utah have more stringent requirements. To find out what is required where you live, check out your state’s Department of Motor Vehicle website.

Pay Taxes, Title and Registration Fees

When you purchase a vehicle out of state, you are required to pay the sales tax rate for the state you reside in. For example, if you live in Nevada and purchase a vehicle from Oregon, which does not have a sales tax, you still pay Nevada’s 8.1% sales tax before you register the vehicle. You are also required to pay for a new title and registration when you bring it back home.

Get Auto Insurance with Nevada Insurance Enrollment

Once you have purchased your new vehicle, it is important to make sure that you get the right auto insurance. It is important to purchase auto insurance as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle is covered. In most cases, your auto insurance policy goes into effect the day after you make the down payment. One of our agents can help you review your needs and obtain affordable coverage