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Inspect used vehicles for water damage

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Recent hurricanes and flooding in other regions of the country can have an impact on Arizonans considering the purchase of a car. It’s not uncommon for vehicles damaged by hurricanes or flood waters to be shipped hundreds of miles away and placed on the market. 

Prospective buyers can protect themselves by closely inspecting a vehicle before purchasing it. Remember, a flood-damaged car might smell of mildew. If the car doesn’t pass a literal smell test, walk away.

Tips for buying a used car are detailed in this post on the ADOT Blog.

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Buying and Selling Your Vehicle

Buying and Selling Your Vehicle

Buying a Vehicle

Buying a new or used vehicle is a major purchase, and it can be a complicated process, but by following some guidelines and doing the right research before the sale, consumers can minimize or eliminate common buying errors.

Regardless of where they are making a purchase, consumers need to know how to protect themselves from a fraudulent deal. An unscrupulous seller may try to get rid of a stolen vehicle, tamper with an odometer by rolling back the mileage, alter a title, or sell a car with extensive water or collision damage that has not been properly repaired. 

Buyers are encouraged to do their homework and not be pressured into purchasing a vehicle before doing some basic research.

Here are some more valuable tips to keep in mind when purchasing a vehicle:

 

Vehicle History Tools

National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS)

  • NMVTIS is a national vehicle electronic system established to help protect consumers from vehicle related fraud. A consumer can obtain information on the vehicle’s title, history and condition by obtaining a vehicle history report from an NMVTIS approved provider.

Check Vehicle History

Arizona Vehicle Emissions History

  • This free service is from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. 

Arizona Motor Vehicle Inquiry

  • Request a title and registration motor vehicle record online.

Check Motor Vehicle Title Status

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

  • NHTSA provides information on vehicle safety ratings and vehicle recalls.