Beyond Nc Lemon Law: What To Avoid When Buying A Used Car

By Author: Kacy Suther
Total Articles: 223
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While North Carolina Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles, there are many other laws that protect consumers who purchase used cars. It's extremely important that consumers know how to protect themselves, especially when it comes to purchasing a used vehicle. Sure, buying a used car can save you tons of money, but if you're not careful, you could get stuck with more problems than you bargained for. The old phrase buyer beware is never more applicable than with a used car purchase. If you plan on purchasing a used vehicle, keep the following tips in mind when making your decision.

1. Always do your homework first. Don't hand over any money to the seller until you've done a full title search and vehicle history report on the automobile. You can have the title checked through government files at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and then a vehicle history report completed through a service like CARFAX. If the seller presents you with a title search, but you believe it may be fraudulent, do your own title search on the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) with the DMV.

2. Stay away from purchasing a vehicle ...
... "as is." An as is auto sale means that there are no warranties involved. If you must buy a used car as is, you should require the seller to let you take it to an independent mechanic (of your choosing) to inspect it prior to signing the paperwork and closing the deal. Be sure to do this before signing any documents--this can't be reiterated enough. If you plan to purchase an "as is" vehicle for a fixer-upper project, that's perfectly fine; just understand that you'll need to have the car safety certified and brought up to standard before you take it out on the road.

3. If it sounds too good to be true, then more than likely, it is. Not even the most motivated seller is going to experience a major loss on a used car sale. If you suspect that there has been some tampering with the vehicle, check the odometer reading from previous ownerships. A CARFAX report will show the progression of the odometer over time. Remember, the typical vehicle owner drives their vehicle about 12,000 to 18,000 miles per year. Keep your eyes open for good deals, but avoid any sales that seem too good to be true.

4. Steer clear of curbsiders. Curbsiders are stolen cars that are re-sold by criminals with fraudulent VIN numbers and fake documentation to unsuspecting buyers. If a seller won't meet you at their house, is not conducting the sale in their own name, the VIN looks as though it's been tampered with, or the car has been freshly painted, you may be dealing with a curbsider. If you just so happen to purchase a stolen car unawares, the vehicle can still be repossessed and you will have no course of action--other than a civil lawsuit--to recover your losses. Lemon law, North Carolina or otherwise, will not protect you under these unfortunate circumstances.