Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 11/13/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question - Hi again Kevin. If I buy a used car from a dealer, should he already have had it inspected or is this something dealers normally do not do. If they haven't had it inspected before I buy, should I just go to another dealer or ask them if I could have a local inspection service to come check it out?

Thanks again,
Mike Eidson
Hi Kevin,
There were no "Experts" in the Jeep section, so I thought I would ask you.
I'm preparing to buy a used Jeep from a dealer or private owner online this next week. I've read the statement, "never buy a used car without using CARFAX" or using Edmunds. CARFAX costs around $19.00 for a 30 day subscription. In your opinion, is it worth it? What important things will it tell a prospective buyer, and more importantly, what will it not reveal that I may need to raise additional questions to the seller about?
Also, is there any foolproof way where I can be sure the odometer reading hasn't been altered or rolled back?

Thank you for any help!

Sincerely,
Mike Eidson
Answer -
Mike,
I have never used Carfax. It is a service that provides information on clear titles, odometer readings, problem check and registration info. On a late model vehicle it might be OK. However, if you are buying a vehicle, be it online or in person, you should ALWAYS have it inspected by a qualifed mechanic. If you are purchasing it online, there are inspection services that will inspect the vehicle and provide you with an inspection checklist. Use Google to locate one near the vehicle. From a dealer or individual, bring it to your local mechanic or at least one that is ASE certified. If the vehicle has a digital readout, you can be pretty sure it's the real mileage. Unless someone has replaced the odometer. Bottom line is, don't buy it without a qualified inspection. I can't tell you anything about Carfax, I have never used it and haven't gotten burned.....yet. Go to Carmax.com
Good luck,
Kevin  

Answer
Most dealers will have their used cars inspected. Usually. I still would not trust them. Tell them you are bringing it to your own mechanic for an inspection BEFORE you sign on the dotted line. If they say NO, find another dealer. They could be hiding something.
Kevin