How to Buy a Used Car from a Private Party

So, you’ve finally found what looks like your ideal used car but it’s being sold by a stranger (or even a friend or relative). Negotiations on price are just one benefit of the private-buy process. Learn how to buy a used car from a private party, from financing and fair market value to test drives and titles.

If you’re looking for a used vehicle, purchasing from a private party has certain benefits — no sales tax, for example. You may also be able to get a bargain on the ride you want if the seller is motivated.

There are ways to make sure your vehicle purchase goes smoothly and ensure you’re getting a reliable ride for your money. Before you buy that Corvette on Craigslist, read this guide on how to buy a used car from a private party.

If you need financing, get preapproval. You can save for a car with some fun money-saving challenges. If you don’t have the savings to pay for your ride in cash, consider financing. You could potentially qualify for an auto loan from a credit union or bank to help you with your purchase. (Tip: You might be able to add an extended warranty program if you finance through a credit union or bank, so be sure to ask about your options.)

Research the type of vehicle you want. Do you want a smaller sedan with good gas mileage? An SUV for weekend adventures? Something sporty? A convertible? Peruse sites like Craigslist, Autotrader.com and eBay Motors to see if you can find a good fit.

When you find a vehicle you like:

1. Research its fair market value. Look up the value of the car on Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.
2. Get a vehicle history report. Companies like CARFAX™ and AutoCheck® will research the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and share details about ownership, accident history, title status, mileage and more.
3. Take the car for a test drive. Bring a friend for safety, meet in a public place and go during daylight so you can see the car well. Ask for proof of insurance before driving the vehicle.
4. Get the car inspected by your mechanic or use a mobile service like CARCHEX®. It’s worth paying for a vehicle inspection; it can save you thousands of dollars down the road.
5. Ask for identification and make sure the name on the ID matches the name on the vehicle title.

How to Pay for a Vehicle

Meet at your bank or credit union. Never bring cash. Use a cashier’s check or money order and don’t hand over payment until you have the keys in hand. You should also get emissions documents on the car and a bill of sale that includes:

• Year, make and model
• VIN
• Sale price
• Sale date
• Names and addresses of buyer and seller

It’s also smart to line up car insurance before driving away so that you and your new ride are protected.

About That Title …

Before buying, make sure the vehicle has a legitimate title. Check the title for:

• Lienholders – a third-party lender with a financial interest in the vehicle. Lienholders need to be paid off before you can assume ownership. If the seller has a loan on the vehicle, you can work with your lender and theirs to obtain payment and transaction details.
• Salvage titles. Salvage vehicles have been considered total losses by an insurance company. Most experts caution against buying them.
• Words or phrases like rebuilt, lemon and factory buyback. Such vehicles have a documented history of mechanical and engineering flaws.
• Out-of-state titles. Unless you can confirm the vehicle’s history, avoid buying a car with an out-of-state title.

If you’re in the market for a used car, truck or SUV, buying from a private seller can be an effective way to get the ride you want at a price you can afford. If you choose to go that route, just be sure to follow our tips to make it a safe and enjoyable buying experience — and hopefully a great driving experience for years to come!