Ideally, when purchasing a used car, you should have the title in hand before driving off in the vehicle. While the laws vary from state to state, many states stipulate that buyers shouldn't take ownership of a used car unless they've received the title. Keep in mind that even if you've paid for a used car, you don't really own it unless you're in possession of the title. And you can't be sure if the person selling the car is the rightful owner unless you've seen the title.

Can a used car be driven without plates?

State laws dictate that cars tapped for road use should have visible license plates. However, many states have provisions that give drivers a couple of months to obtain plates for cars that have been recently purchased or leased. This allows you to legally drive your newly purchased used car even though it is without plates.

What are the disadvantages of buying a used car?

There are a couple of disadvantages of buying a used car. The first has to do with reliability; since used cars have been previously owned, they might be less dependable than new cars in certain circumstances. Also, new cars come with generous warranty coverage, which isn't offered with many used cars. Manufacturer-backed certified pre-owned cars are the exception to this rule; these used cars come with warranty coverage that is comparable to that offered by by new vehicles.

What are the benefits of buying a used car?

Buying a used car provides a huge financial benefit to car shoppers. New cars can lose nearly 20 percent of their value to depreciation after just one year of ownership. For this reason, even a one-year-old used car can be significantly more affordable than a comparable new model. Used cars also come with lower sales tax and registration fees, and they are less expensive to insure than comparable new models.

What are the benefits of buying from a used-car dealer?

There are certain benefits that come with buying a used car from a dealer. The dealer will typically handle all of the paperwork related to registration and title transfer, and the dealer will calculate applicable sales tax. This is a convenient perk, and it will save you time. Also, if you're looking to finance the car, the dealer may be able to provide you with affordable options. If the used car is part of a manufacturer-backed certified pre-owned program, it will be sold with a warranty that can help shield you from expensive repairs. Also, certified pre-owned cars must pass a rigorous inspection to be included in the program, and this helps you avoid vehicles that might develop serious reliability problems down the road.

See more Tips & Advice

Cash For Cars

Serving the North Charleston area.

(888) 473-6284

We'll Buy Cars or Trucks, Running or Not!

Website Contact Us More Info

1-800-Cash-for-Junk-Cars

Serving the North Charleston area.

(800) 569-1576

Website More Info

Didn't find what you were looking for?

magnifying glass

Helpful Reviews

J & J Auto Sales

Kara R. rated

Bought car from them twhich broke down the next day. They didnt care and just wanted more money. Drove car for few hours and it just broke down.

Northwoods Auto Sales 2

Deidra W. rated

Financed a gmc terrain from here in October, the purchase process was great and then a month into having the car I got a code for catalytic converter. I said ok, I bought as is so I guess i gotta fix it. Another month later got several codes after the car broke down at a stop light which includes: knocker sensor, camshaft sensor, crank shaft sensor, and a correlation break...with that being said took it to get serviced and its gonna be a $2300 job after finding that timing chain and assembly should be replaced. Charlie advised that I can't expect much out of a car with 180,000 miles, but I would expect a dealership to take pride in what they sell to have repeat buyers. I feel like I wasted my money and anyone buying from here should becareful!!! Charlie was very nasty and I would never recommend buying a vehicle from him.

Payless Car Sales

Justin B. rated

THANKS bRANDON FOR THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE. i LOVE MY TRUCK .

Payless Car Sales

Ali E. rated

Quick fast approval, no hassle, great customer service and got me riding in the car I wanted !

Payless Car Sales

Sandi M. rated

I was searching for a reliable used vehicle with specific features when I came across Payless' website and a potential match for me.

Payless Car Sales

Xavi M. rated

He's the best, had a great experience with will. Thanks .

Payless Car Sales

Kel E. rated

BRANDON GOT ME APPROVED WHERE EVERYWHERE ELSE JUST MADE EMPTY PROMISES. GOOD THING I DIDN'T GIVE UP .

Payless Car Sales

Lourde P. rated

Brandon proved himself on the first sale last year so it was a no brainer where I was going to buy my second car. My wife loves her new Chevy

Payless Car Sales

Sar J. rated

They really helped me out in a time of need. I was able to purchase MY first car thanks to Will Calhoun. He was the best in getting me in a car

Southern Motor Company

Kel E. rated

I now own the vehicle