Learn About the Vehicle Before Spending Your Hard-earned Money for the Purchase
Every year, hundreds of people buy and sell vehicles. The process of purchasing a car has changed significantly; consumers are now more informed and focus on factors such as reliability, suitability for their needs, and the appropriate price for the vehicle. However, car dealers have the upper hand when it comes to buying a vehicle, especially in a traditional dealership setting. While private sellers can sometimes offer better prices, dealerships often provide more support, warranties, and financing options.
Prospective car shoppers should always do their research beforehand. Key considerations include your budget, your needs, your wants, and the quality of the vehicle you intend to purchase. Before spending your hard-earned money, it's essential to understand the vehicle you plan to buy and learn about the dealer selling it.
Did you know that in New York State, every automobile dealer must register with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV)? Registered dealers are required to comply with certain state and federal laws that protect your purchase of a new or used car, truck, or other vehicle, including those sold as salvage.
Additionally, when you purchase a used vehicle, the dealer must certify in writing that the vehicle is "in condition and repair to render, under normal use, satisfactory and adequate service." This means that the vehicle must include all safety equipment and emissions controls required by state and federal laws for its model year. New vehicles are also safeguarded by the manufacturer’s warranty.
New York State ranks among those with the highest number of cars, over 10 million, highlighting the importance of the DMV and the Erie County Auto Bureau in redefining their roles.
The core purpose of the Erie County Auto Bureau and the NYS DMV is to assist buyers and sellers of vehicles, provide guidelines for vehicle transfers, offer registration and licensing documentation, and regulate rules and regulations throughout the state to ensure safe transactions between car buyers and sellers.
To support new or used car buyers, the Erie County Auto Bureau has issued an informative brochure titled “Let the Buyer Be Aware.” This brochure provides a detailed and concise overview of the rules and regulations governing the sale and purchase of vehicles in New York State.
As with any major purchase, spending thousands of dollars on a new or used vehicle can be overwhelming. The key to securing a fair deal and a quality vehicle is to be well-informed. A bit of research and awareness on your part will lead to a satisfactory transaction.
If you would like a copy of this valuable brochure, you can request one via the Clerk’s Help Desk at https://clerkhelp.erie.gov or by calling the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.
