How to Safely Buy a Used Car on Craigslist: Tips to Avoid Getting Ripped Off

🔍Finding the actual owner of the car is crucial to avoid dealing with disreputable car dealers and their bait-and-switch tactics.

🚩Avoid salvaged or refurbished titles that indicate the car may have serious issues and may not be worth the investment.

🤝Meet the seller at their residence to establish trust and ensure recourse in case of a pre-existing condition not disclosed by the seller.

🕵️Bring a scan tool to check for erased trouble codes and incomplete readiness, which can reveal hidden issues with the car.

🛣️Conduct a thorough road test of at least 10 minutes, including testing the brakes, AC, and observing the temperature gauge.

Why is it important to find the actual owner of the car?

—Dealing with the actual owner helps avoid dishonest sellers and disreputable car dealers who engage in bait-and-switch tactics.

What should I look out for when it comes to the title of the car?

—Avoid cars with salvaged or refurbished titles, as these may indicate serious issues that could make the car a bad investment.

Why should I meet the seller at their residence?

—Meeting the seller at their residence establishes trust and provides recourse if the car has undisclosed pre-existing conditions.

Why should I bring a scan tool when buying a used car on Craigslist?

—A scan tool can reveal erased trouble codes and incomplete readiness, which may indicate hidden issues with the car.

What should I check during the road test of a used car?

—During the road test, pay attention to the brakes, AC, temperature gauge, and general performance of the car.

00:00Learn valuable tips to safely purchase a used car on Craigslist without falling victim to scams or dishonest sellers.

02:39Finding the actual owner of the car is crucial to avoid dealing with disreputable car dealers and their bait-and-switch tactics.

03:56Avoid salvaged or refurbished titles that indicate the car may have serious issues and may not be worth the investment.

05:40Meet the seller at their residence to establish trust and ensure recourse in case of a pre-existing condition not disclosed by the seller.

07:55Bring a scan tool to check for erased trouble codes and incomplete readiness, which can reveal hidden issues with the car.

09:30Conduct a thorough road test of at least 10 minutes, including testing the brakes, AC, and observing the temperature gauge.