Fishing Frenzy

Used cars, also known as pre-owned or secondhand, are vehicles that have had one or more owners. They can be purchased through several different sources, including private parties, auctions, car dealers, leasing offices and car companies. Often these vehicles are sold with extended service plans and warranties.

Almost half of the vehicle retail market within the United States is contributed to used car sales. The Empire State Motor Wagon was one of the first car lots that sold pre-owned vehicles. The New York-based company began in the late 1890s.

An important step to take before purchasing a secondhand vehicle is to do research on the car being considered and the seller. Vehicle history reports are helpful in providing a vehicle record. They typically include all public record information in regards to fraud, buybacks, title branding and product recalls. The damage and maintenance records are also included.

There are three forms of pricing reports available for pre-owned vehicles: retail or dealer, private party and dealer trade in. Retail or dealer is the price anticipated when buying from a dealer. Private party is the price anticipated when purchasing from an individual seller. Dealer trade-in is an anticipated price when trading in to a dealer. This price is the same as what a dealer would typically play in an automobile wholesale auction.

There are many factors that can influence the overall price of these vehicles. Geography may have an impact. For example: Pickup trucks are in high demand in rural areas over urban areas and convertibles are in high demand in warm climates but low demand in cold climates. Other price changers: car condition, seller.

Vehicles that have had one or more owners are considered used cars. They cost less than new vehicles and can be bought at rental car companies, car dealerships, auctions, leasing offices and from private parties. The cost will vary. It is recommended that thorough research is done on a seller and the vehicle history before making a purchase.