Whether you are buying a new or used vehicle, there are alternatives for shopping at a dealership. You can use a car buying service for a new or used vehicle or you can buy direcly from a private owner.

The following list will provide you with tips and tricks, if you choose to buy direct.

• When buying from a private owner, always copy the sellers identification and accept only titles signed directly by the owner. Be very cautious when the owner has signed off the title to a person who is now selling to you. Always get bill of sale, which is a letter or note signed by the seller describing the terms of the sale in detail.
• If the vehicle you are buying has a lien, make sure that the lien is released before you buy the vehicle. If you are financing the vehicle at the credit union, we will take care of this step for you.
• Be careful when using online services such as Craigs List. There are fraudsters in the online community. Generally speaking, if you are offered a deal that is too good to be true, it probably is a deal that should be scrutinized very carefully.
• It is always a good idea to get a Car Fax on any vehicle that you are interested in buying
• Beware of any vehicle that has a salvage title. In Michigan, salvage title are orange instead of green. A salvage title generally means that the vehicle was 'totaled' in a car accident, but is now certified as road worthy. Former police cars are also titled as salvage.
• Check the reputation of any used car lot that you deal with. You won't have much recourse against a disreputable dealer.
• A reputable car buying service is a great alternative for buying a vehicle. SageLink Credit Union has built a relationship with My Credit Union Car.Com. Members who utilize this service can get pre-approved for a loan and have My Credit Union.Com find a vehicle and deliver it to your doorstep. There is no obligation to buy. All vehicles are sold with an automatic warranty. Check out the following web-site, but remember... if you do not see a vehicle that you are looking for listed in invetory, My Credit Union Car.Com will find it for you!