Tip Of The Day: Do Some Research Before Buying A Used Car

Start with a "background check" first to see if the used car make/model you're considering is a problem car. Find information about recalls and safety-related defects at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Web site (www.nhtsa.dot.gov) and consumer satisfaction at JD Power & Associates (www.jdpower.com).

Consumer Reports is another place to check (www.consumerreports.org)and click on "autos". A Google or Yahoo! search also provides information Type in the make and model of the vehicle and "lemon."

Ask the seller to provide a service record. If available, it's a good sign the car was well cared-for and maybe, proof there were no unusual repairs or problems. If records are not available, be careful. It may not mean the car is a bad car, but wonder why the owner didn't maintain records that would make the car easier to sell.

Screen the car by having a third-party mechanic (not one working for the dealer) look the car over as a condition of sale. If the dealer refuses to permit this, you should consider yourself warned -- and walk away.

Be sure it passes both state safety and emissions tests. In most states, this is a legal requirement, but don't assume it is. It can cost hundreds of dollars to repair a used car that fails either state safety or vehicle emissions testing -- and in many cases, you can't legally register or drive a used car until it does pass.

Finally jot down the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN #) located on a stamped plate on the top of the car's dashboard. Run a CARFAX Vehicle History (www.carfax.com) report to check for used car deal-killers such as evidence of a prior accident, odometer fraud, manufacturer "buy back" (a lemon), etc. A CARFAX report costs less than $25, and is well worth the expense. Most car dealers will do this for you if you ask them to.