Deservedly or not, it would be naive to pretend that the image we have of used car dealer is anything but negative. Jokes about used car dealers are about as common and as nasty as those about lawyers. While it is true that some used car dealers will try to foist anything on an unsuspecting customer, it is also true that most used car dealers take pride in their establishment and will provide the public with sound and economical transportation. Like any merchant, used car dealers will depend on word of mouth and repeat customers in order for their business to prosper. As the price of new cars has risen in recent decades, many people will look for a used car dealer in order to find transportation. Most people will want a used car that is under five years old, and also has fairly low mileage. Most dealers will take cars in trade-in and then check them over for any faults or problems. As most of the dealers have a maintenance staff on the premises, mechanical problems are fixed and the car is usually given a tune up before being offered to the public. Used cars make up nearly half of all automobiles sold in the United States, and most of the stock for this segment of the economy is handled by used car dealers. Because the purchase of a used car will often mean a significant outlay of money, certain rules have been instituted to protect buyers. To make sure that the public is aware of the quality of a used car they are purchasing, used car dealers must follow the guidelines set down by the Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule. The only states that do not comply with this rule are Wisconsin and Maine, where they already have the same sort of regulations in effect. The Used Car Rule stipulates that a disclosure document must be provided with every vehicle sold by a used car dealer. This disclosure will help the buyer understand whether the car is being sold with any kind of guaranty or "as is". If there is a warranty with the car, the buyer will also learn how much of any possible repairs will be covered by the dealer. The disclosure will also advise the buyer to be sure to get any promises in writing, and a reputable used car dealer will be happy to provide this. Besides the disclosure document provided by the used car dealer, anyone buying a used car should also take steps to assure that the vehicle is all that it appears to be. A vehicle history report can be purchased (the car's Vehicle Identification Number must be provided) that will give you some idea of any past problems with the car. In addition, it is always a good idea to have a competent mechanic who is not affiliated with the used car dealer, put the car up on a lift and check to make sure that it is mechanically sound. Making sure that you are protected as much as possible with diligent research, and that you go to a reputable, certified used car dealer, your experience will probably be a good one. Taking the time to find the right car and dealer will assure that you will be driving your 'new' used car for many years to come.
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