St. Louis, MO-(Effingham Radio)- For many consumers, buying a car is second only to buying a home when it comes to big-ticket purchases, and the process can be just as daunting. Choosing a used car is a great investment that allows consumers to purchase a reliable vehicle that fits their needs while still saving money, but the potential risks involved make it all the more important to do your homework first.
Michelle Corey, Better Business Bureau (BBB) St. Louis president and CEO, said consumers should make well-researched and informed decisions before purchasing a used car. “A used car might test-drive like a dream, only to be a clunker a few weeks later,” Corey said. “It’s important to know the vehicle’s history and your rights under a warranty.”
Nationally, BBB has received more than 44,000 complaints regarding used car dealers in the past three years. Many of these complaints follow a simple pattern: A consumer buys a used car, the car soon after malfunctions or fails to pass an inspection, and the consumer wants redress. Locally, 625 complaints were made against used car dealers in the last three years.
Beyond the usual bait-and-switch routines, upsells and the sale of cars in sub-standard condition, BBB has recently received reports from consumers buying used cars online from a bogus car dealer and receiving nothing in return for their purchases.
Read more used car shopping tips at bbb.org >>
About BBB
BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB services to consumers are free of charge. BBB provides objective advice, BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. Visit bbb.org for more information.