I'm just wondering if anyone has advice for buying a car out of state - It's within a distance I'm willing to drive (~330 miles or so) but I would fly in, inspect the car at a reputable mechanic, complete the transaction, then drive it home. Has anyone done anything like this recently, or recommendations? I haven't been able to find the S2000 I want at the price I'm willing to pay locally. Thanks!

 

I drove to a neighboring state about a 8 hour drive to dallas from new orleans to get my S. Is the car your interested in private or at a dealer? Also, is it paid off or still have a lien on it?

 

I've been looking at both - I know it's a big hassle if they don't have it paid off - I tried to buy one local but that's kind of where it stalled since neither of us has sold or bought a used car before. It we get it sorted out I rather deal local...

Did you negotiate a price before you went there? Did you rent a car and drive over? I just don't want to get screwed in the process, basically wondering what's a good way to protect myself even though I know we can never be 100% sure.

 

I did this recently. If its paid off, it goes a lot smoother. I flew out, self inspected it (had less than 30k on the car), finished bank transaction, shipped it back home, flew back home.

Process went smooth. Negotiate price before flying to see the car. If you are flying out there, you must be 95% sure you are going to buy the car and that 5% is for major issue arising while inspecting the car.

The owner picked me up from the airport, and dropped me off.

Bill of sale and a possible notary will help secure yourself in the sale.

Make sure to get a moving permit to drive the car back legally after you purchase it.
A moving permit is like a temporary registration.

Take someone with you if its going to be a single day transaction. Someone who can help drive (a manual) if its long distance. Driving a car thats new to you in a long distance can yield problems so be wary of this.

Hmm... i may be missing some things but i need some coffee to finish the rest of my day. :sigh:

 

Drove about 4 hours to pick up my Vette in OK. Had lots of phone discussions and agreements with the dealer prior to takeing the drive.

 

Don't take a cashier's check for the full amount. Keep some cash in reserve in case you have to renegotiate the price after inspection. I did that on an out of state motorcycle purchase. Negotiated price upfront. Took a few bucks off for a minor issue after inspection.

 

just take your current tags along to drive it home...do the speed limit so you don't get caught

 

And what if he hits somebody and hurts or kills them and has no insurance coverage on his new, unregistered car?

 

then thats his problem, it was just a thought.

 

G, I've been in Internet Business Management in the car world for 7 years and have sold many cars to customers who never saw the car in person as well as those who flew in and I picked them up in the car at the airport.

Whether it's a private sale or at a dealer get a good phone dialogue. I think you'll know by the persons reactions to your questions of condition and such that you'll know if they are shady or not. I would have them look over the car while you are on the phone with them. Ask them to check the wheels for curbing, front and rear bumpers, and doors for any dings. If you haven't seen a ton of detailed pics ask for them. Each wheel, tire tread, under the hood, VIN stickers on fenders and doors (for paint work) and interior.

Other than that be at ease with it, but just document your conversations and such.

Also best way to handle funds is money wire (if you can), especially if you're buying from a dealer, but I do agree with the guys above that you shouldn't take a cashiers check for the full amount with you unless you are pretty certain all is well with the car and you won't have to re-negotiate any terms when you actually see the car.

Good luck