CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Buying a car can be a big ordeal. Everybody wants a great deal. But do we always do our homework before signing on the dotted line?
In today’s Protecting Your Money segment, Andy Liscano speaks with the Better Business Bureau and a used car dealer.
Corky Avila says he’s been in the car business since 1980. He owns a used car dealership, and knows a thing or two about people buying cars.
"A lot of people buy on impulse and it’s not what they need," Avila says. "Big difference."
So what should people know when it comes to buying a used car?
1. Do your research
Katie Galan with the Better Business Bureau recommends the organization's website for ratings, reviews, and complaints, good and bad, about local dealerships.
2. Try to buy a certified pre-owned vehicle with warranties backed by the manufacturer.
"Know what it is you’re signing because there could be fine print in there that will really affect you down the road," Galan says.
3. Take it for a test drive. Take it to your mechanic.
"We recommend that anybody that wants to take a car to a mechanic shop here, they’re more than welcome. They just got to tell us where they’re going and ample time," Avila says.
4. Who’s responsible for repairs?
Yeah, who’s responsible for repairs, if say, the vehicle breaks down within 30 days of purchase...dealership or customer?
Both Avila and Galan say it’s up to the discretion of the dealership.
5. Make sure you get the title and license plates within 30 days
We’ve done countless stories on customers still waiting for their title months after purchase.
Report the dealership to the DMV in Austin go to txdmv and click on dealer complaints.
You can also contact the Nueces County Tax Assessor Collectors office.
