Used Cars, What You Don’t Know May Hurt You

By Thomas Greer | January 25, 2015

Car dealerships in Tennessee must be licensed by the state. Anyone who sells a car without a license is limited to selling only personal vehicles. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the rules. There are unlicensed dealers who obtain cars from salvage yards, take out sellable parts like airbags, make them look good and sell them to unsuspecting customers. These cars with secret pasts can be very dangerous if the new owner is in a Memphis car accident.

How can you get a good deal on a safe, used car? Here are some tips from our Memphis auto accident attorneys:

  • Before buying any used car, you should research the vehicle. Vehicle history reports are available through services like CARFAX and AutoCheck. These reports cost around $40 and list any reported accidents, flood damage, recalls, mileage, airbag deployment and more. Having the history of the vehicle can help you identify inconsistencies between the vehicle’s history and its appearance.
  • When searching on Craigslist or other classified sites, do a web search on the phone number. If there are multiple car listing associated with the same number, you may be dealing with an unlicensed dealer.
  • When you call, ask about “the car”. Be vague. If the seller asks, “Which car?” it is a sign that they are selling multiple vehicles.
  • Be suspicious of sales conducted from parking lots or roadsides.
  • Ask to see the seller’s driver’s license and the title to the vehicle. These should match.
  • Be careful of sellers who claim to be selling vehicles for family members or friends. This is usually a lie.
  • Before buying a car, take it for a test drive and have inspected by a trusted mechanic. Ask him for an estimate for any repairs that are needed now or in the near future.
  • Ask for a warranty. A legitimate dealer will be willing to offer you a reasonable warranty in case something goes wrong.
  • Consider buying a certified used vehicle from a dealer. These cars cost more, but they keep their original warranty.
  • If you have problems, file a complaint with the state Attorney General’s Office.

The Memphis accident lawyers at Bailey & Greer represent victims of car accidents throughout Tennessee and Mississippi. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Tennessee traffic accident, contact Bailey & Greer at 901-680-9777 and ask to schedule a free consultation.

Not sure what to do after a Tennessee car crash? Request a free copy of our book, Learn How to Deal with the Aftermath of a Tennessee Auto Accident with These Tennessee Accident: Tips for Injury Victims.

Posted in Auto Accidents, Library