Buying A Private Party Used Car Logistics

[GasX]

For the first time, I am buying a car from a private party. Apart from exchanging keys for cash (and checking out the car again even more closely...) What do I need to do?

I am specifically concerned about registering, insuring and driving the car immediately.

Rossman - I will have a bill of sale

 

[PsychoAndy]

I wouldnt drive it right away IMHO. Depends on your state regs. I think we had to pay, get the title and keys, get it insured (you have to have it titled to get it insured) and then we started driving it.

-PAB

 

[RossMAN]

wje and I have a lot of experience with this subject, however as seller's not the buyer.

The most important things to remember:
1) Ask questions, why are they selling it, is it a salvage title, has it ever been in a minor or major accident, etc.?
2) Ask for maintenance records.
3) Before you sign anything or give any money or take possession of the car please have a trusted mechanic check it out. This is very important, just in case there are potential repairs which need to be addressed (possibly lowering the sale price) before the sale is concluded.
4) Give the seller guaranteed funds (a cashier's check from your bank or credit union not a personal check or money order).
5) Obviously get a bill of sale.

I think that about covers the major points. Everything else should be covered in wje's thread and my thread.

You want to be informed about the complete history of the car, have it inspected by a trusted mechanic and ask a lot of questions BEFORE you buy it.

Trust me!

 

[T2T III]

I am specifically concerned about registering, insuring and driving the car immediately.

I think your situation depends a little on the following:

1) Whether you have an existing automotive insurance policy or not. If you do, check to see if this new vehicle is covered (e.g. for 72 hours) until you contact your insurer to get the vehicle added. If you don't have an existing policy, contact an agent and get one before you purchase and drive the car away.

2) I'm sure the seller will want to keep the plates. You driving on their plates is probably a No-No in your state. You could go to your local DMV (Dept. of Motor Vehicles) and get a temporary license for the vehicle. In my state, I can get a 72-hour license that I put in the back window for a cost of about $5.00. This would give you enough time to get the car licensed, insured and titled.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

[RossMAN]

Originally posted by: wje

I am specifically concerned about registering, insuring and driving the car immediately.

I think your situation depends a little on the following:

1) Whether you have an existing automotive insurance policy or not. If you do, check to see if this new vehicle is covered (e.g. for 72 hours) until you contact your insurer to get the vehicle added. If you don't have an existing policy, contact an agent and get one before you purchase and drive the car away.

2) I'm sure the seller will want to keep the plates. You driving on their plates is probably a No-No in your state. You could go to your local DMV (Dept. of Motor Vehicles) and get a temporary license for the vehicle. In my state, I can get a 72-hour license that I put in the back window for a cost of about $5.00. This would give you enough time to get the car licensed, insured and titled.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

I agree.

If you have any DMV related questions here are the phone numbers for the NY DMV call centers.