allkingz: Basically once I found the car I wanted, I did a carfax just to make sure it was a one owner vehicle and not a lease return or anything like that. I called the local dealership (ie. BMW of ..... or Mercedes....) and basically told them I wanted to schedule an appointment for a USED car inspection (be specific and tell them that you want them to inspect the car as if they were going Certify it) and pay the bill with your credit card or work that part out with the seller. I've done it a couple of times that the seller agreed to pay for it if there are any problems. Also tell the person that is actually looking at the car to call you when the vehicle is there so he/she can do a walk around and tell you what they see.

Hope that helps.

ps. avoid cars from TX private dealerships!!!!

 

Doesn't sound like you have much experience dealing with humans.
I would never purchase any car (much less a premium sports model) that I didn't get to test drive first. Period.

 

The key here is a reputable dealer. I purchaced my 02' on ebay. It was a VERY reputable dealership that had sold 100's of cars on e-bay. Look at their history and credentials. I would NOT buy from an individual owner. To much risk for a lemon. But again, take a look at the seller and make a common sense evaluation. There are several top name dealerships that specialize inselling their cars on ebay. I bought my 2002 with 9,600 miles for 22,500 a year ago. I bought a 45 dollar greyhound ticket to Michigan and picked it up. I got a great car at a great price and am very pleased. Watch the auction and find out what the reserve is. If it doesn't meet the reserve and doesn't sell, that's when you start calling them and getting there best price. Get warrranty information serial numbers, run a car fax on it and if it's a good car wheel and deal with them! THE best time to buy the S is in the dead of winter from a northern dealership. Their prices will come down as much as 2 grand this time of year. You can't drive the S in the winter weather up there and they pretty much try to unload them at cost to get them off the lot before the model/year change coming up. They take a big hit on year models as the new models come out so they try to let them go at any cost. If you can wait a few more months you may be able to get a year newer car at the same price the year older car is selling for right now. GOOD LUCK my friend......cj

 

I would think that this advise would apply just about anywere, not just TX.

Good luck & Drive Safe,
Steve R.

 

Thanks