by Dick Stewart

Created on: March 28, 2009   Last Updated: April 02, 2009

You don't need to be an expert to judge between cars but you can't do it without driving them, and I don't mean a leisurely spin around the block. Do it right, and even a little old lady like the one I once helped choose a car, whose greatest driving challenge was getting to church on Sunday, can discern clear differences among cars and make an informed choice. If she could, so can you.

There will be minor variations depending on whether your candidates are private party cars or at a dealer, but the drive itself is basically the same.

Before you even leave for the rendezvous though, gather a few things you will need.

A dealer will usually ask for your license in order to make a copy when you get there, but they don't need the original, so bring a photocopy and show them the original for confirmation. You don't want to be handing your driver's license to the dealer. Occasionally one may hold it hostage while they try to talk you into a sale.

If there is something large you frequently carry, like presentation boards, a bicycle, or a spouse with long legs, bring it if you can. If you often carry a big dog, leave Fido at home, but bring his crate. Bring a newspaper. Sunday editions are best. If it's windy, bring a rock or a brick - something to keep it from blowing away.

If it's a private party, bring a friend - a big friend or a small friend in a Karate outfit.

Bring something on which to make notes, and a pen. A favorite CD or MP3 you won't miss if it gets eaten is a good idea. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you won't mind getting dirty. If you often drive in heels, bring a pair.

If it's a private party, insist on meeting at a public place with some traffic, like a supermarket parking lot. Before you meet with the owner or salesperson, practice this mantra: "This is not the only car out there. I will be merciless. I am a good person, and rejecting this car will not change that!"

When you arrive, the first thing you do is place the newspaper under the car's engine and weigh it down.

You'll also want to put some between you and the ground when you are crawling around under the candidate car, looking at shocks and for rust.

Ask for maintenance and repair receipts. If there are none, don't automatically reject the car, but be skeptical.

Look at the car. Walk around it. First impressions, if negative, are fatal. Reject it! Look for worn tires and make a note to check replacement cost. Uneven wear means the alignment is off.

During the inspection, have the seller or

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>