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| It's smart to learn if any recalls exist on that used car before buying it |
Buying a used car by walking around it and just kicking the tires doesn’t cut it anymore.
Thanks to technology, much of the information you seek is just a few mouse clicks away. Start with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
All you need to do is jot down the 17-digit vehicle identification number from the left side of the dashboard near the windshield.
Once you have that information you can plug it into the NHTSA’s VIN look up site. They will then be able to tell you about any open recalls.
Many automotive dealers check for such recalls. You can ask them to do it while you watch.
Number of vehicle recalls soars in recent years
More than 60 million passenger vehicles were recalled in 2014, a much higher figure than in previous years.
That, however, is not necessarily bad news.
More than two-thirds of the recalls launched in 2014 were instituted by the automakers themselves, and not by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Try consulting a mechanic before you buy
Even with potential recall issues addressed, it’s smart to take the car to a highly rated mechanic.
Used car dealerships often will let you take the car to be independently examined before signing on the dotted line.
That should give you peace of mind and maybe a little bargaining power, too.
Many used car dealerships also sell certified pre-owned vehicles. Normally, these cars and trucks have been inspected by the dealership and any found issues addressed. They often check for recall notices.
Certified vehicles may cost more, but they also may come with additional warranties to back up the work.