Your car is a big investment. For most people it is their
biggest investment except their house. People depend on their cars for many of
their daily transportation needs.
We all hate feeling cheated. Unearned or not used cars
salesman have gotten a bad reputation over the years. They are referred to as
wheeler dealers and other not so nice terms. If a person looking for a used car
runs into a dishonest dealer it is often too late before they realize it. They find that they have been cheated out of
hundreds of dollars and possibly worse. What can be done? 1. Better Consumer Laws Often the law works in the favor of the shady dealer and
against the consumer. The car could have
been badly damaged in an accident or have other factors that would make it undesirable.
Most people have heard of "CAR FAX" but in most states it is not
mandatory for dealers to divulge this information. In fact just recently
California was the first state in the nation to pass a law for the protection for
car buyers.
"This bill unleashes the power of technology to provide
first in the nation consumer protections, cut red tape, and help save the state
millions," said California Assembly Member Robert Blumenfield.
The bill implements a first in the nation requirement that
car dealers post a red [warning} sticker on the used cars they sell that are
flagged in a federally mandated database – the National Motor Vehicle Title
Information System – as "junk," "salvage," or
"flood" branded vehicles. An informed car buyer will be able to make
better choices and be less likely to be surprised. Also there should be better
LEMON LAWS to protect consumers in case they do get cheated. 2. Enlist an Expert The auto buyer should always have a mechanic check the
vehicle out. In fact ALWAYS insist on getting your own, independent inspection
by a reliable auto technician, BEFORE you agree to buy. Don’t trust the seller
— even if it’s a large dealership and the salesman seems nice and friendly.
They are out to make a profit, and you don’t want it to be at your expense. The
little bit of money you pay to have the automobile checked out could save you
thousands. The safest way to do this is by having Bigowl’s Auto Rescue do the
inspection. We are mobile so we can come to you to inspect the vehicle and
inform you of any potential problems. This reduces the chance of an accident while driving
to another repair shop if the car is unsafe. To find out more information
contact us and schedule an appointment. 3. Do Not Be Rushed There are thousands of great vehicles out there, so do not
be pushed into buying now. If the car does get sold away then you will find
another. Experts say that due to the emotions involved with automobiles we
sometimes make impulsive purchases. You are possibly going to have this car for
years. If you take your time and make an informed decision it will be years of
satisfaction. If you have any suggestions on protecting yourself while buying a car; or you have a story of a bad experience let us hear from you. |



