Not everyone can afford a new car. . At times getting a used car can be much smarter. A new car may have higher taxes and as soon as one buys a new car its price is depreciated simply because it automatically becomes “used”.  This is the reason some people prefer to buy used cars at a more reasonable price.  It helps save money obviously and it can also save money on insurance.

To buy a used car the most important part is to get as much information as possible to ensure one gets the money’s worth. It is an important transaction and must not be handled without proper knowledge or you may end up wasting money.
The foremost factor influencing the choice of car is the budget that a person has. It limits the choices available to a buyer. The next step is to explore and select the car that is within the budget and best suits the motor vehicle needs that the individual has. The potential cost of the car can be estimated by searching thoroughly online and comparing prices of cars of the same model.

The information is easily available online. There are many car shopping sites that help both the buyers and the sellers and make the whole process much simpler. The many advantages that come when you buy used cars online have made this a popular way of purchasing cars.  At car shopping site an individual can check the inside and outside of the car from the photographs, find out the features of the car and compare the costs as well. All the information equips the buyer with useful knowledge about the car so when the actual car deal is made one is more prepared to handle the purchase.
Given below are some tips for buying a used car that can guide a buyer:

• Search for information on make and model
• Check consumer reports and go through comparison guides
• Check insurance rates. The insurance rates depend on the model of the car, body style and the year of the model.
• Ask seller for Vehicle Registration Number (VRN). Each car is issued its unique VRN number. With this number a person can verify the vehicle history report. There are people who charge a small amount to search for such records, but with it the buyer can reduce the risks.
• Check for used car fees and taxes. These taxes vary from state to state.
• Check frequency of car repairs
• Check gas mileage
• Have car inspection done by experts. The car can be taken to a repair shop or the car inspectors can be brought to the location to check it. The standard fee can be roughly around $100 or more, but this can save a lot of hassle and make the buying process a lot safer.
• Take a test drive. It is important to get behind the wheel and check if the car is easy to start and the gears shift smoothly. Check the brakes and the turn signals. Some sellers might be reluctant to allow test drive. Dealers or private seller can ask for a driver’s license or information on insurance provider before they allow the car to be taken for a test drive. Therefore, it is best to have them at hand when a test drive has to be taken.
• If there is any sign that the car purchased has some problems or manufacturer defects there is Lemon Law claim that can be made. It such a case, the state checks the complaint against the automaker and can have the vehicle repaired or returned or can also get the money compensation. The Lemon Law can vary in different states.
• Buying car from a dealer or private party both options have its own pros and cons. Dealers provide warrantees and offer certified cars while with private parties they might not be any additional cost and the prices are negotiable.
• When a car is purchased, bill of sale is required. It is the document needed to have the car registered in the new buyer’s name. The specific requirements of the bill of sale vary in different states.

The above mentioned tips can prepare you to be more informed so that when the purchase takes place you are not clueless but know what to check and how to do it.