Car Dealers vs Private Sellers

On behalf of everyone at Northshore Automall we would like to thank you for visiting our web site. A used vehicle can be the second largest purchase of a person’s life. To make sure you’re getting the best value possible, take the time to explore your options. Listed below are many tips and questions you need to ask yourself about car dealerships and private sellers. Before you buy your next vehicle read this article.

If you find any of this information useful or would like to see something else added to the article feel free to visit or contact us at Northshore Automall.

New and Used Car Dealerships

A dealer’s reputation is your best guarantee if things go wrong. They can also offer you some type of warranty on a used vehicle. Make sure the dealer is licensed through the Province and the Canadian Auto Dealers Association (CADA). CADA members are required to adhere to a particular code of ethics, which should be openly posted at the dealership. Mandatory safety inspections are required on all vehicles to ensure only safe vehicles are on the road. This reduces costly and tragic accidents. Be wary of dealerships who make exaggerated claims in their advertising. CADA members are required to abide by advertising standards that cover such areas as product claims, disclosure of financing terms and conditions, and word usage in advertisements. Vehicles at a CADA member whether obtained through trade-ins or purchased at auction, have been lien searched, investigated, safety inspected, reconditioned and thoroughly cleaned before being placed on the lot for sale. They generally know the service history of the vehicle, and in most cases offer a warranty or service agreement.

Unlicensed Dealers: Be wary of unlicensed dealers, also known as “curbers.” Some curbers alter the odometer, fail to do any lien searches, and misrepresent the vehicle’s history. If you do purchase from an unlicensed dealer you could lose the vehicle and your money. Curbers may also pose as private sellers. Watch for advertisements listed in newspapers with the same phone number.

Used Only Dealers

Again, their reputation is on the line and in most cases they can offer you some type of limited warranty. Also, make sure the dealer belongs to some type of motor dealer council and adheres to its code of ethics.

Private Sales

Buying privately offers the advantage of being able to negotiate a low price, but the risks can be significant. Take care not to be taken by a dishonest seller. If you purchase a stolen vehicle you could lose your money and your vehicle. In any private sale be sure to check the following:

• Insist on seeing the vehicle at the driver's residence. Vehicle thieves may deal with you by cellular phone and insist on bringing the vehicle to you.
• Ask yourself if the seller suits the vehicle.
• Ask for identification and match the address with the location on the vehicle registration form.
• Examine the vehicle identification number (VIN) plate for tampering, and match the VIN with the registration form and the Federal Standards Sticker (usually found on the driver's door post).
• Beware if the vehicle price is too good to be true or if the seller is too easy to deal with, insists on cash, needs payment right away or says they are selling the vehicle for a friend. Don't let yourself be rushed.

Choosing a Salesperson

If you do decide to purchase your next vehicle at a dealership consider this advice about choosing the salesperson you want to do business with. Do you feel comfortable dealing with them? Are they relaxed and open? Do they answer all of your questions in a straight forward manner? Do they return your phone calls in a timely fashion?

CADA Members

Purchasing a vehicle from a credible dealer like us can save you time and money, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re dealing with people who stand behind what they sell and will be there when you need them. Consider your options when you head out to purchase your next vehicle. Make an informed decision and you’ll enjoy a satisfying experience and years of trouble-free driving.

We would like to thank-you for visiting our web site and invite you to browse our new and used vehicle inventory. Our used vehicle inventory also gives you the option to compare vehicles side-by-side in the comfort of your home or office. Simply select a vehicle then click “ Compare,” and select another vehicle of your choice for comparison. This will give you the opportunity to view specifications about similar vehicles side-by-side in the comfort of your home or office.

Located in Western British Columbia, Northshore Automall is here to satisfy all of your vehicle needs. Come see us for a test drive. We would love to meet you in person.