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Getting the facts about a used car before you buy can help avoid trouble down the road. Here’s what you need to know.

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You need a car. Where do you start? Here? Actually the best place to start researching used cars is online. So you know exactly what you want and what you can afford. 

The more you know going in, the better you'll feel driving out. At the dealers there are a few other things to know. Dealers have to put a buyer's guide on every used car. The buyer's guide will tell you if a car has a warranty, or is being sold as is. But that's not all you need to know. 

Ask the dealer to run a car's vehicle history report, or get a copy yourself so you know where the car has been. Ask to get in the car inspected by an independent mechanic, and check to see if there are any recalls on the car. It will all help avoid trouble down the road. You have a right to know the facts about the car you buy. If the dealer isn't honest, let the FTC know. 

Want to know more? Visit FTC.gov/cars. 

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