GREENSBORO, N.C. — More used cars are sold than new cars, but that doesn’t mean it’s easier to do. When you buy a used car, you don’t really know if there is anything wrong with it and how it was handled in its previous life.
Before you buy your next used car you need to know these things.
MYTH: If your used car breaks down during the first 30 days the dealer you bought it from has to fix it.
Most dealers slap an "AS IS" sign on the car, which means there is no warranty and no responsibility by the dealer. The buyer is on the hook for any repairs, even if the car breaks down a block from the lot.
Anytime you're buying a used car, you need to follow this piece of advice.
“When buying any new used car, check for open recalls at NHTSA.gov/recalls. You can also get a vehicle history report. But the best way to ensure that a car is roadworthy is to have it inspected by an independent mechanic before
you buy,” said Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports.
Don’t take the dealer’s word for it that the car is good. Have another mechanic not affiliated with the dealership look it over. You should expect to pay about $100 for this service but it can save you money in the end.
MYTH: North Carolina has a Lemon Law for used cars.
The Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles. It requires manufacturers to repair defects that affect the use, value, or safety of a new motor vehicle within the first 24 months or 24,000 miles. The new vehicle must have been to the shop for repairs for the same problem four or more times.