What laws are there to protect you when you purchase a car from a private owner?

Answer by  patti (29325)

There are no laws, per se, in these matters. "Buyer beware" is how buyer's protect themselves from less than ethical sellers.

Answer by  Hewitt302 (1720)

If you get a car that has been stolen, and the cops come after you, then you can sue the owner of that car for fraud. If the car is a lemon, when they told you it was a brand new condition, you can also sue for fraud. Any shady work involving the license plate and insurance can also work.

Answer by  patti (29325)

There are no specific laws about private car sales. There are laws regarding fraud and misrepresentation. Though it isn't a law, "buyer beware" is the most important consideration.

Answer by  okcmouseketeer (779)

Laws will be different from state to state, very few have any, but as a general rule, cars from a private buyer are considered to be "as-is".

Answer by  withluck (1745)

When you buy a car from a private owner, you are buying as is, where is. This means there is no warranty and no guarantee of a fair price. There are good deals out there on privately owned cars, but it is up to you to do your homework to protect yourself.

Answer by  eyeguy (3760)

There are little to no laws that will protect a buyer of a privately owned car. This situation is always the first example of Buyer beware. However if the seller has intentionally damaged or rigged the car as in cutting the brakes, then the buyer may have a small chance at monetary recovery