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Pre-owned vehicles are just that. Pre Owned. A good "Used Car Lot" will inspect that vehicle, but most have a limited area and expertise within, to do it. They buy the cars, usually at an auction and the auction does it's best to make sure the vehicle is passing strict test and has never been involved in an accident or flood damage. In Maryland, as all other states, a buyer has the ability to run a "Carfax" That piece of paper will tell you the entire history of the car. If it has been in accidents, stolen, repossessed, leased, rental, etc. If you are looking for a certain type of vehicle, you should first try a Dealership representing that make. They tend to buy those vehicles and have their certified mechanics do a State Inspection and making sure the vehicle has the required maintenance performed at the correct mileage. The Dealership will also honor the FTC (federal Trade Commission) guarantee. They will guarantee, 100% parts and labor for 30 days. They can also offer an Extended Service Agreement (warranty) to you. The manufacturer is the only one that can sell a Warranty. Purchasing one for a used car lot or dealer is called an Extended Service Agreement. Dealers tend to have the manufacturers product while used car dealers sell "After market" plans. When you need a pre-owned vehicle, it is in your best interest to do your homework and check the vehicle out. If you have a favorite mechanic, ask the dealer, new or used, if you can take the car to your mechanic to look at. A reputable dealer, new or used, will allow that. If they do not, I would suggest, strongly, NOT buying that vehicle, as it appears they are hiding something about that vehicle. You don't need any surprises. Know what you are doing and feel good about it.

Learn more about this author, Charles Stover.
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