How to Buy a Used Car in Colorado

When buying a used car in Colorado, you must, by law, follow certain key steps. You will wan to follow other steps that are inherent to buying any used car or that are based on your personal preferences and needs.

Shopping

• Determine which features you prefer and how much you can spend on the car. Search for a car through local car dealers, newspaper ads and websites. Call to get information about cars that meet your criteria, and set up test drives. It is wise to arrange to have the car inspected by a mechanic before purchasing it.

Purchase

• Negotiate a price with the car's current owner or the dealer. Pay for the vehicle in the agreed-upon way, such as by cash or certified check. If buying through a dealer, you can finance the car if needed. If the car's owner has no loan on the car and has the title, have him sign the title over to you.

Registration

• You must register the car immediately at your county's auto registration office. You also need to obtain license plates. Fees are required for this that vary based on issues like the value of the car. You also must add the car to your auto insurance.