Car Search

How to find information about a new or used car

By Renee Palmer

Searching for a new or used car can be difficult. However, the Internet can be a great resource to help you make an informed decision on what vehicle to choose.

This guide has many tips on how to find, research and buy your next car, and will save you time, money, energy and a lot of frustration. Remember, searching for a new or used vehicle doesn't have to be hard or scary - all the information you need is right at your fingertips!

New or Used Car Search Engines

• Motortrend.com: Get price quotes, reviews and details of new or used cars by visiting Motortrend.com. This site gives detailed reports on the vehicles you are interested in, and allows you to read reviews and see both the pros and cons of buying a vehicle. To search for a used car, just enter the type of vehicle you are looking for into the search engine and you will automatically receive a list of all the vehicles in your area that match your search.
• Edmunds.com: When you visit this site, you not only get reports on vehicles, you get to search through "certified pre-owned" vehicles. This means designated vehicles have been thoroughly inspected, and found to be in great condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. You should also visit their "Tips and Advice" column, which provides excellent information on what to look for in your next vehicle. Edmunds also provides an extended search list for the car you’re looking for, so you can narrow down your results to find exactly what you want.

Blue Book Value

KBB.com (Kelly Blue Book) is an excellent website for finding out the exact (or close) blue book pricing of any vehicle, new or used. This will help you negotiate with dealers and get the best price possible. Most dealers are ready to drop prices considerably if you show them you know a lot about the vehicle and how much it is really worth.

Car Title / VIN Number Search

• Carfax.com: To perform a Title / VIN search, you must have a Vehicle Identification Number. Some vehicle listings give you the VIN, while others do not. If you come across a listing that interests you, don't be shy! Call or e-mail the dealer to get the VIN - they are required by law to give it to you. In order to get a full report, you do have to pay CarFax. But for less than $30, you can save a lot of trouble and of money by knowing exactly what you’re getting into. It will help you avoid buying a car that has been in an accident or has had major damage.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.