Saving & Spending Home & Auto

10 Reasons to Always Buy a Used Car From a Dealership

Before you purchase through a private seller, consider these reasons to buy from a used car dealer instead.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Dec. 17, 2024

Are you in the market for a used car? You might be tempted to look for a great deal from a private seller, so you don’t have to visit a used car dealer.

Used car dealers sometimes get a bad rap. But in truth, there are some good reasons to buy from a dealer. You might even save money and boost your bank account.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider heading to a dealer instead of shopping somewhere else.

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You have a greater variety of cars to choose from

In most cases, a private seller has just one car available for purchase.

On the other hand, a used car dealer will have a variety of makes and models, so you can compare different options and find one that works for you.

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You get more payment options

A private sale for a used car usually requires you to pay everything in cash at the time of purchase.

However, you should be able to finance a car through a used car dealer. Banks and online lenders also might offer financing.

Dealers often inspect vehicles

Dealers will often inspect cars before putting them up for sale. The dealer may also make necessary repairs and maintenance.

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You might get warranty coverage

Once a transaction with a private seller is complete, don’t expect the seller to help you if the car has issues in the future.

On the other hand, used car dealers might offer a warranty for a vehicle you buy.

A dealer might have a return policy

A lot of car shoppers do not realize that some used car dealers offer a return policy.

Check with your local dealer to see if it offers a policy that allows you to return the car after a few days if you decide it’s not for you. Laws can vary by state, so make sure you clearly understand how these policies work.

Dealers might offer you a vehicle history

It’s important to do your research before buying a car. You can learn more about a car’s repair and accident history by using a website such as Carfax or AutoCheck.

You’ll probably have to do this work on your own with a private sale. By contrast, a dealer will often provide you with a vehicle history report.

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Service contracts often are available

Some dealers have service departments and offer service contracts. Asking a used car dealer about a service contract is a smart car owner move so you can consider whether it’s right for you.

Dealers are subject to more regulations

Used car dealers may have a bad reputation, but they are also more regulated than private sellers.

Dealers have to honor agreements made with you, such as warranties. They also have to tell you whether the car is being sold “as is.” This can give a car sale greater transparency than you would get when buying from a private seller.

Certified pre-owned vehicles might be available

Buying a certified pre-owned vehicle can give you peace of mind. With these cars, the dealership has inspected the car and repaired it to exacting standards before putting the vehicle up for sale.

A certified pre-owned vehicle may also come with an extended warranty.

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You might get to trade in your old car

A used car dealer may offer you trade-in value for your old car that can be credited to the vehicle you are purchasing.

A trade-in can push a car’s cost lower and eliminate the hassle of trying to sell your old vehicle in a private sale.

Bottom line

These are just some of the reasons to consider buying a used car from a dealer.

It’s also important to look for other easy ways to lower your costs. Shopping around so you save money on car insurance is another way to cut car expenses, for example.

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