Alert Advising Caution, Patience When Purchasing Used Cars

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, through her Consumer Protection Team, is cautioning patience and thorough review of vehicle and sales terms to Michigan residents shopping for used cars in a new consumer alert.

Purchasing a used vehicle is an experience often marked by high-pressure sales tactics, few or missing vehicle history details, ‘as-is’ terms of sale, and most often the transaction is finalized in a legally binding purchase agreement or contract.

“Purchasing a used vehicle is often an anxious, uneasy experience for buyers who only engage in this type of transaction every few years and aren’t often making purchases with such large price tags,” said Nessel. “Following several key tips on vehicle inspection and taking your time to thoroughly review any agreements you are signing can give buyers confidence in the process and the purchase.”

Among the recommendations in the alert are:

• Examine the vehicle using an inspection checklist;
• Find out if the vehicle was involved in an accident or incurred other damage;
• Ask for maintenance records;
• Check for open recalls at safercar.gov; and
• Determine the value of the vehicle before you negotiate.

For more information, visit Michigan Attorney General alerts:

• Contract Cancellation Information for Consumers
• Michigan’s Lemon Law – Avoid Getting Stuck With A Lemon

You can file a consumer complaint here. More information about the complaint process is available on our website.

For more information about popular consumer scams, or if you believe you’ve been a victim, residents can contact the Consumer Protection Team Monday-Friday at 877-765-8388 or complete our online complaint form.