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Used Car Resources

AutoSite
The site includes book values for used vehicles and lets you adjust for mileage, transmission and air-conditioning.

Edmund's
Offers in depth information on used cars and tells you what to expect for your trade-in.  To learn what your used car is worth, punch in its make, model, year and mileage.  Through their price index of accessories, you can then factor in the value of add-ons such as whether your car has a stereo or alarm.

Kelly Blue Book
Pricing on new and used autos. The Web site lists both wholesale and retail prices for most cars and takes into account various levels of condition. 

Auto Trader
Prices new and used cars according to make, model, year and mileage.    

With A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you can receive a report indicating whether there are odometer discrepancies, whether the car was once totaled, whether the car was repossessed or used as a taxi or police car, or if the car suffered from prior flood damage, etc...

Cheap Vehicle Histories

Carfax   (800) 346-3846 or

NADA


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Getting A Refund From A Used Car Dealer vs. A Private One-Time  Seller
When trouble starts, you're more likely to get a refund from a used car dealer than from a private or one-time seller.  Unlike the one-time private seller, a dealer's livelihood is much more dependent on his public image. 

In many states, a used car dealer must also remain in good standing with the state licensing laws that regulate used car dealers. A dealer in violation could forfeit his license and go out of business. To see if used car dealers must be registered in Michigan, check out Michigan's Occupational Licensing Boards. Also, some used car dealers belong to a franchise and must maintain the good will of the franchise to operate. If the local seller has treated you unfairly, complain to their company headquarters.

Because a private one time seller faces none of these concerns, they may be harder to persuade. Your only back up here may be to take them to small claims court.

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New Car Internet Resources

Edmunds
This user-friendly site offers in depth information on both new and used cars.  Find out if you're getting a good deal by comparing the car's manufacturer's suggested retail price with what the dealer really paid for it.  This site also tells you what you should expect for your trade-in. To learn what your used car is worth, punch in its make, model, year and mileage.  This site even factors in the value of add-ons such as whether the car has a stereo or alarm.

AutoSite
This comprehensive site allows you to call up invoices for almost all models and has an invaluable listing of all the latest rebates and incentives.  The site also includes book values for used vehicles and lets you adjust for mileage, transmission and air-conditioning.  This site is invaluable for those who want to know every extra item available for the type of car they wish to purchase.

Intellichoice
Compare new models side-by-side to find the one that best fits your needs and budget. Find out about the consumer rebates and
dealer incentives that can save you hundreds of dollars or more. 

Bankrate Monitor
Lists the best rates on car loans.

E-Loan
Licensed in at least 40 states, E-LOAN allows consumers to apply for a car loan via e-mail. On this site, consumers can also search for the best rates on mortgages and home equity loans and credit cards. It costs nothing to apply for a loan and your application will get a response within 24 to 48 hours.

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Insurance Resources

www.insure.com
Provides well written, authoritative advice on buying auto, life, home and other insurance as well as dealing with insurers.  Their articles cover topics such as spotting flood damage in a used cars to HMOs in financial trouble. Buyers can search for firms offering specific coverage in their state and can check a company's strength.  You can also link to insurance companies, quote services and agents, but the selling is done off the insure.com site.

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