ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Buying, Renting, and Leasing a Car

Buying a Used Car

Should I buy a car from a dealer or a private seller?

Go with the seller who gives you the best deal and with whom you are most comfortable. Some experts believe you may be better off buying from a private seller. They think a private seller will give you a more accurate description of the car's faults based on personal knowledge, and a lower price. Private sellers, however, seldom give warranties, which dealers sometimes offer. (See "Warranties and the Uniform Commercial Code" on page 378 in this chapter.) Also, some states have regulations governing used car sales that may apply only to dealers.