Don’t be immediately turned off by “salvage titles,” which are often some of the best deals on the market. Be sure, however, to ask what happened to earn the title. A broken window is a lot different than a cracked axle, but both could cause the car to be considered salvage. [2] X Research source Carfax and other title check sites are good ways to get a cheap vehicle history for bigger buys.
Note the “dealer’s price. " You can usually bargain down to the price they expect from a dealership, because there will be much less paperwork for both of you. Check several sites at once, and always assume the car will be in worse shape than it is – most people will try and sell at the highest price they can find online, and will err towards a better condition on their advertisement.
Cars that don’t start easily or smoothly. Loud noises or grinding sounds in the engine. Ticking, whining, or shaking as the car starts.
Have the seller rev the engine 5-6 times and watch the exhaust. If produces black or thick smoke you should walk away, especially if the oil levels are also low. [3] X Research source
Is the engine temperature high? If so, and there is hot water leaking from the car (not fluid or oil!), then you might be in for a bargain. This could just be a leaky house causing the overheating, meaning you can cheaply fix an expensive-seeming problem. [4] X Research source
Steering: is it smooth and responsive? Braking: Does it stop the car quickly, especially in quick-stop situations? Most importantly, does the car stop in a straight line? Transmission: Does it shift smoothly? On automatic cars, you should be able to get into drive and reverse in less than a second and a half. Any longer delay could be a bad sign. Electronics and Features: Do the lights, windows, and AC work? Is the odometer still running or is it stuck (and do they know how long ago it stopped running, if so?). [6] X Research source
As you’re examining the car, show them issues as you find them. Most people trust a calm, thorough buyer if you walk them through your tests and issues, making them more likely to take your word on price. Gauge their own car knowledge as well. If they seem lost around an engine, you can use this to your advantage to play up any perceived issues.
For more expensive cars, use a site like CarFax to get the title history and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [7] X Research source
Even if you say you’re firm on the price, people will still be looking to negotiate. The phrase OBO (“or best offer”) is used to indicate that you’re willing to negotiate on the price, which is a good way to convince people to call you. If the car is high value or a rare find, you might be able to make more money at an auction than a direct sale. Know, of course, that all auctions are a bit of a gamble: you might get way more than you hoped, but you could also get far less.
Be sure to check online if the car has any common issues or problems. Can you do anything to convince potential buyers the problem has been handled? What repairs can you do yourself? Older cars tend to have pages of advice on home repairs online, and more of them are in the range of a home mechanic than you might imagine. [9] X Research source
Wipe down all surfaces with a clean cloth. Vacuum all surfaces, including under and around the mats. Rinse and wash off the exterior, including hubcaps. For higher-priced cars, consider a coat of wax to give it a clean sheen. [10] X Research source
Be sure to provide plenty of pictures, especially of problem areas you noted (like a ripped seat). This inspires confidence and can help people stop worrying about potential defects. [11] X Research source
Be sure to note the registration status as well. If it is almost up, people will have to pay $100 or more in order to re-register it, and they may factor that into their bargaining. Be aware of state-specific requirements, like California’s smog tests. If you can get this done ahead of time you can usually charge more than the test’s cost, as you’ll have eliminated the hassle of making them pay for a smog test.
Watch or check out car auctions and car sale shows to get a good idea of prices on a variety of cars. Check into car appraisal sites regularly and watch the newspapers for car sales even when you’re not in the market. The more cars and prices you see, the sharper your sales mind will become.
When buying cars, looks for phrases like “getting rid of,” “need to make some quick cash,” or other indicators that someone wants the car gone, no matter what the price. When selling cars, pay attention to those that move quickly or seem excited before they’ve even seen the car. Be sure to ask why or what they want the car for, as this can clue you into their financial situation. Desperation signals good deals. [12] X Research source
Be honest with the seller, “I can only buy/sell this car for $1,200 – can you meet me there?” If they can’t, you can walk away. Always have the cash on hand, and ask potential buyers to do the same. If you can pay right on the spot, you can often get them to lower their price to save everyone the hassle of meeting again. Don’t get emotional about this – you’re only buying the car for the money. If they don’t meet your pre-planned price, get out.
In general, it is a good idea to have a friend along for online deals to stay safe. Always meet people in a public place. [13] X Research source
Look the seller in the eye and ask them if you’re making the right choice buying the car. They should be able to look right back at you and shake your hand.
