Expert: Ray Paulsen - 8/1/2005

Question
My friend is buying a car from a private party in Massapequa, NY.  The seller is taking almost $3000 less than blue book value for the 2005 Acura RSX type S with less than 3000 miles on it.  He claims he is selling it because he got a company car and does not use the Acura enough to warrant keeping it. Carfax says that it has not been in any accidents.  Is there any other way for a novice to look at a car and tell if body work has been done?  Do you have any other suggestions to gain peace of mind that this car has not been in a serious accident?  Thanks in advance for your suggestions!  

Answer
Hi stephanie
I really like your Q...Most people will go Carfax pay the fee and be satisfied...your digging a little more and i like that... as Carfax is not 100% in my mind... as i have proven them wrong many times in the past, its a money machine on the internet...
Take the vehicle to a body shop...pay for an inspection...they will really know if any accidents have been...If the seller wont allow you taking the vehicle, you must walk away
I dont like the fact its a private sale from what information i got from you...
Go to my website  http://usedcartips.bravehost.com/  click on DID YOU KNOW and scroll down to buying private VS dealer and at same time click on has this car been in an accident

Regards
 Ray












5