A Few Simple Rules for Buying Your Next Used Car

    KALAMAZOO, MI, November 13, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- A recent study by a major auto industry think-tank, reveals that Generation Y'ers find used cars as both being a better value and holding their value better. The problem then lies within how to find the right car from the right dealer. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) outlines a few simple rules to follow to get the keys to a great car and an even better deal.

First, the FTC tells consumers to have the car examined by their own mechanic. Marketing Coordinator at Express Auto, Cliff VanMeter says, "Any reputable dealer will offer you the chance to do this before you buy." The FTC also urges consumers to test-drive any vehicle before purchase. "Be sure to drive the car on varied road conditions," says VanMeter. "Hills, highways and stop-and-go traffic are the best gauges."

Next, consider the dealer's reputation before you buy; quality dealers will have customer testimonials. Consumers should also call the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to find out if the dealer has any unresolved complaints or they can look for the BBB seal on their website and review their profile. Along with checking the dealer's reputation, buyers should also ask about their return policy. "Dealers are not required by law to give used car buyers a right to cancel. Three day Love-it-or-Leave-It Policies like ours are not the industry standard," says Matt Ghazal, president of Express Auto. Further, do not rely on spoken promises; get all guarantees and warranties in writing, and get a receipt for any money you gave the dealer. Then, be sure to make copies of everything that is signed.

Lastly, do not commit to buying more than you can afford. A dealership should work with the buyer's specific situation by considering how much money they can put down, their monthly payments, and the length of the loan. Subsequently, the dealership should always report good payment history to credit reporting agencies. This will improve the buyer's credit score and can lead to lower interest rates in the future.

Even while trying to keep these tips in mind, the buying process may cause consumers to forget what to look for and what to do. The most reputable dealers will not only abide by these rules, but inform the costumer and promote them, as well. Great dealerships advise and counsel their customers; working with them to find the right fit of vehicle and financing.

For more information, contact Express Auto at 800-385-0144 or call the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP.

Express Auto has helped more than 10,000 people acquire reliable transportation. People that would have been turned away by less innovative auto dealerships. By making value, service, and integrity our highest priorities, we have raised the bar for "buy here - pay here" dealerships and become Michigan's #1 buy-here pay-here sales and service organizations. "It's about your future, not your past," is more than just our motto; it is the foundation of our business.

Website: http://ExpressAuto.com

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