Also some things to weed out the " street corner dealers posing at private owners" that don't have dealer licenses and buy undervalued cars , shine them up and flip them.


" Hi, I'm calling about the " car " on Craigslist ( e bay , newspaper ad )." If they have only one car for sale they will know what you are talking about.

"How long have you owned the car?"

"Is the title in your name?" ( if you do go to look at the car, make sure the VIN on the title matches as does the name / address. Also look at the "date title issued" block and see if it matches what the seller told you.

Given the Internet is forever, do a google search for the car / VIN and such.

I'm OK with the car guy that buys and fixes cars here and there _IF_ they disclose what they are doing up front in the ad. If they are not up front with what they are doing, are they really going to tell you ( or know every long term issue ) with the car?

In the end, buy _THE CAR_ and not the _odometer_. Car lots just don't have the time to look at the car with a microscope. Take it to a trusted shop, spend a hours labor and have them check it out. Don't expect the shop to warranty the car and don't expect a perfect car, it costs less than a new one because it is used!