When Does A Used Car Cost More Than A New One?

November 18, 2011
By: Robert Silverman

“I purchased a used car and the dealer didn’t tell me….”

We cannot count the number of calls to the 1-800 LEMON LAW hotline starting with this sympathetic phrase.  They didn’t know it was a rental car, off a lease, had more than one owner, or was in an accident.  Well guess what?  Any reader of our <a href=”https://www.lemonlaw.com/” title=”What is Lemon Law”>Lemon Law</a> Blog knows that if you don’t ask about these issues, the dealer does not have to tell you. Yes, your heard correctly.  It’s “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.”

A dealer is only required to disclose if a car has a lemon, salvage, flood, or reconstructed title.  So, this means that before you sign on the dotted line, you need to ask the right questions.  And lucky for you, we have those questions listed on our lemon dodger worksheet.  Take this sheet with you and be prepared to walk if the dealer does not provide you with the answers you request.  Also, consider hiring an outside mechanic to check the vehicle out before you drive it off the lot.  A hundred dollars now could save you thousands of dollars later.  And if the dealership has a problem with you arranging for an outside inspection, that should immediately raise a red flag.

Lastly, and just as important, make sure you ask about the warranty and what it entails. Many times, consumers think what is actually a <strong>lemon law</strong> issue is covered under warranty when in fact, it’s not.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Otherwise, you could end up with a used car that uses up all of your funds.