Buyers Guide
A well-thought-out plan transforms the car-buying process from risky to reassuring. It ensures that every decision, from budget to inspection, is grounded in transparency and logic. With Erilih’s tools and guidance, buyers aren’t just choosing a car, they’re choosing peace of mind.
Why You Need a Plan Before Buying a Used Car
Why You Need a Plan
Before Buying a Used Car
Purchasing a used car isn’t just a transaction, it’s a commitment to safety, reliability, and financial responsibility. Without a clear plan, buyers risk overlooking critical details that could lead to costly repairs, legal issues, or even fraudulent listings. Erilih’s Buyer’s Guide lays out a structured approach that empowers buyers to make informed, confident decisions.
Avoid Rushed Decisions
Buyers are urged to take their time reviewing paperwork and inspecting the vehicle thoroughly.
Rushing can lead to missed red flags or overlooked defects that compromise safety or value
Clarify Your Needs
Define the type of car that suits your lifestyle: consider size, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
This helps narrow your search and prevents emotional purchases that don’t meet practical needs
Set a Realistic Budget
Include not just the purchase price, but also insurance, registration, and potential repairs.
Planning for these costs avoids financial strain and ensures long-term affordability
Research Market Value
Use tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or Erilih’s own Vehicle Valuation feature to understand fair pricing.
This knowledge strengthens your negotiation power and protects you from overpaying
Inspect and Verify
Take advantage of Erilih’s Vehicle Inspection Checklist or bring a trusted mechanic.
Verified Listings on Erilih include background checks and optional history reports, adding layers of trust
Negotiate Strategically
Plan how to use visible defects (scratches, worn tyres) to negotiate a better deal.
If the price is firm, consider asking for extras like spare tyres or recent servicing
Erilih's Simple 7 Step Guide
for buying used vehicles
Erilih's Simple
7 Step Guide to
buying used vehicles
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Budget
- Determine the type of car you need (size, fuel efficiency, reliability)
- Set a realistic budget, including insurance, registration, and potential repairs
- Research market prices using tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or local listings
- Decide on key features—manual vs. automatic, fuel type, and must-have accessories
- Check availability of spare parts and maintenance costs for the model you are considering
- Leave room in your budget for unexpected maintenance or minor repairs
Step 2: Find a Reliable Seller
- Search Erilih’s Verified Listings where Sellers have opted for our team to complete extensive background checks to ensure listing is legitimate
- Avoid extremely low prices or pressure sales tactics—these can be scams
- Request recent photos (not just stock photos) to verify the car’s actual condition
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, especially significantly lower prices
Red Flags
- Seller refuses to meet in person or rushes the sale
- No documentation/history of the car available
- The price is significantly lower than market value without a valid reason
Step 3: Inspect the Car Thoroughly
- Exterior Inspection
- Interior Inspection
- Under the Hood
- Test Drive Checklist
For more information on what to check and how to complete each of the above inspections, check out our detailed Vehicle Inspection guide by clicking the button below.
Step 4: Check the Car’s History and Documentation
- If a Seller has opted for one of our Verification Packages you can read a Report at the on the Vehicle Listing
- When a Listing isn’t Verified, you can Request a vehicle history report yourself directly from the History Section of the Listing
- Additional Checks
- Verify the VIN number matches the registration and title
- Ensure the car is not stolen—run a check with local authorities
- Ask for maintenance records to see past repairs or servicing history
- Confirm the title is clean (not under finance or salvage status)
Things to watch out for:
- Seller won’t provide a vehicle history report
- The VIN number appears altered or mismatched
- The car is still under financing, meaning the seller doesn’t fully own it
Step 5: Negotiate a Fair Price
- Research similar listings to understand fair market value before negotiating, you can also check a vehicle expected value using our Vehicle Valuation feature located at the bottom of each Listing Page
- Use visible defects (scratches, worn tires, needed repairs) to negotiate a lower price.
- If the seller won’t budge on price, ask if they’ll include extras (spare tires, recent servicing).
- Be polite but firm—don’t hesitate to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
Key Tip:
Always get a written agreement after negotiation to avoid misunderstandings.
Step 6: Make a Secure Payment
- Avoid large cash payments—use a secure method like bank transfer or escrow services.
- Ensure the seller provides a signed bill of sale detailing the transaction.
- If needed, involve a notary or legal authority to validate ownership transfer.
Security Check:
- Confirm the payment method is traceable (bank, PayPal, or escrow)
- We offer an Online Payment Solution to offer you peace of mind.
- Double-check the signed paperwork before sending any money.
- As part of our Online Payment Solution, we will also provide a digital Bill of Sale.
Step 7: Register and Insure the Car
- Transfer the title to your name at the local transportation office or DMV.
- Purchase car insurance immediately to avoid liability issues.
- If required, complete emissions tests or technical inspections before full registration.
Don't forget:
- Keep copies of all documents for future reference
- Verify that the registration shows your name—not the previous owner
Registering a car in Mexico is essential to ensure legal ownership and compliance with local regulations. If you need further support to do this, click the Button below and take advantage of our detailed Vehicle Registration Guide.
