Overhaulin'

Car dealer vs private sellers vs car auctions?

Which is the best option to buy a second hand car? I'm after a VW Golf 2000 or later with a full service history, low mileage, very good condition etc. What are the main things to look out for with dealers and priv sellers? Are they a lot cheaper at auctions? Do you get to check the car before committing to buy at an auction? Any advice would be appreciated - thanks!

Public Comments

1. Going to an honest dealer is going to be your best bet, but it will also probably be the most expensive. If you decide to buy from a private party or an auction, make sure you have an independent mechanic check out the vehicle before you buy it. It will probably cost you $70-$80, but that is a drop in the bucket if it keeps you from buying an unreliable vehicle. At an auction, you can check a car before the auction starts. Typically, the inspection period is an hour before the actual auction begins. The only way I would recommend buying from an auction is if you can take a mechanic with you. Note regarding auctions - not all auctions are public auctions where you can just go buy a car. While these do exist, many auctions require a dealer license to purchase a vehicle. Some even require a deposit upfront, which you will get back at the end if you do not purchase anything.
2. Here is a generalized rule of thumb; New/Used Dealer -- the car has been inspected and reconditioned to a certain degree depending on their standards Private Seller -- 50/50 chance of not needing any repairs. How many people do you know of that follow the routine maintenance schedule and never fall behind on repair issues? This is what you are buying. You save money up front, but give it right back when it comes time to making it 100% right. Public Auctions -- This is the bottom of the barrel in terms of quality cars. This is not to say good cars can't be found. They can. However, those are offered at a dealer-only auction. A public auction car will be loaded with problems. If you can repair a vehicle yourself and perform body work, this is a great option for you. Whatever route you take, have it inspected by someone you trust prior to signing the bottom line. This should be easy in all cases except the auction.
3. A full service history? Forget about an auction, they never have histories with the car. Public car auctions are a dumping ground for cars that nobody wants because they are riddled with problems. Dealership?...maybe if it was the original selling dealership and all of the maintenance and repairs were done in their shop...that's rare. Private seller? There's your best bet. If they have all the records they will be happy to give them to you, they know it will make you confortable with the car and much more likely to buy. In any of these situations you should still have the car checked over with a mechanic and run a carfax report on it. Good luck