Michigan's Consumer protection team is advising patience and a complete review of the vehicle and sales terms when shopping for a used car or truck.
Purchasing a used vehicle is an experience often marked by high-pressure sales tactics, few or missing vehicle history details, ‘as-is’ terms of sale, and most often the transaction is finalized in a legally binding purchase agreement or contract, said a news release.
“Purchasing a used vehicle is often an anxious, uneasy experience for buyers who only engage in this type of transaction every few years and aren’t often making purchases with such large price tags,” said Attorney General Dana Nessel. “Following several key tips on vehicle inspection and taking your time to thoroughly review any agreements you are signing can give buyers confidence in the process and the purchase.”
Among the recommendations are:
- Examine the vehicle using an inspection checklist;
- Find out if the vehicle was involved in an accident or incurred other damage;
- Ask for maintenance records;
- Check for open recalls at safercar.gov; and
- Determine the value of the vehicle before you negotiate.