Yahoo Autos How To Buy a Car In Another State
Used car prices are up and inventory is down in the wake of the microchip shortage. Broadening your search radius is a smart way to help you find the car you want at a reasonable price in today’s market. And given that car prices vary geographically, you may find yourself wanting to cross state lines even when the car buying landscape starts to stabilize.
How do you buy a car out of state, and is it worth the hassle? We have the important answers to help you navigate the process of purchasing a car in a different state from a dealer or private seller.
Why Should You Consider Buying a Car Out of State?
Similar to used car pricing, new-vehicle pricing may also vary across state lines. Manufacturer incentives can vary regionally, so you may find a better new car deal in a different state. Additionally, if you want a specific in-demand model or trim, it may only be in stock in another state. The same goes for classic or antique cars.
Just as pricing can vary by state, some cars are in higher supply in different states. For example, some electric vehicles are only released in certain states that have adopted a Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) program. There may also be a higher inventory of used hybrids and electric vehicles in these states, increasing the likelihood of finding a good deal.
Vehicle popularity can also vary from one state to another. For example, four-wheel drive isn’t necessary in Southern states with temperate climates, so you may find a better deal on an all-weather vehicle in one of those states compared to the Northeast. Conversely, you may be able to find a better deal on a convertible in a state with a harsher climate, as they are in lower demand.
Lastly, buying a car from a neighboring state presents fewer obstacles than buying one across the country. When determining vehicle savings, be sure to take travel and lodging costs into account. Also, you may get to the dealership and realize the car isn’t for you after inspecting it. If you are travelling a great distance to look at a used car, make sure you do your diligence to ensure it’s worth the trip.
How to Buy a Car Out of State
Now that we’ve covered why it can make sense to buy a car out of state, here are the important steps you should follow:
Get a Vehicle History Report
If you’re buying a used car, you should always ask for a vehicle history report, whether buying in your home state or across a state line. A history report such as CARFAX or AutoCheck will detail information about the previous owner and any problems the car had (such as accidents, recalls, etc.) while in the other state. It will also provide the correct odometer reading. Understanding a used vehicle’s history will help shoppers determine the condition of the vehicle when deciding if it’s a smart purchase.
Online research tools like the iSeeCars free VIN check can provide a free CARFAX or AutoCheck report as part of its comprehensive VIN check tool. The iSeeCars VIN check report will supplement the vehicle history report with additional, important information a shopper should know before making a used car purchase. Simply enter the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the iSeeCars VIN check tool to access the comprehensive analysis.
Get a Vehicle Inspection
This is another important step in buying any used car. You should arrange for a vehicle inspection by an independent local mechanic that you select and pay for. You can take the car to a mechanic during your test drive. (Check out our What to Look For When Buying a Used Car for more tips on making the most of your test drive.) This will provide assurance that the car is mechanically sound and has good fit and finish. The extra cost of a mechanical inspection is a good investment compared to the aggravation and hassle of figuring out what to do with a problematic car you didn’t see coming before you bought it.
As part of the inspection, you should ask if it meets the emissions standards of your home state. Be aware that some states have stricter emissions requirements than others.
