Used car buying

The following is general information on used car buying.

When considering purchasing a used vehicle, follow these steps:

• Read and understand your contract before you sign. In Alberta a used car is purchased as is. This means there is no warranty on the vehicle to protect you against unknown problems.
• Ask if the car was a lease, rental, taxi or police vehicle and if it has been rebuilt in any way. These facts should be noted on any purchase agreement.
• Thoroughly inspect the vehicle's interior and exterior conditions.
• If everything has checked out satisfactorily so far, have the car checked out by an independent, competent mechanic or a car diagnostic clinic.
• Check the vehicle during the day and have the car road tested.
• Drive it yourself and have a technician do so at varying speeds over different types of roads. A reputable dealer will allow this - you may not wish to do business with them if they refuse. Dealerships will often try to sell extended coverage.
• Be cautious and read the warranty. Make sure you know what it covers and what it does not.
• Check for liens on the car and satisfy yourself that the seller is the registered owner.