If you are on the market for a new-to-you used car, then investigating Craigslist car sales is an excellent starting point for your search. Craigslist has become increasingly popular over the past several years as a resource for individuals that are looking for creative and inexpensive ways to buy or sell used vehicles.

As with any used vehicle sale, it is important to verify that the advertised features are, in fact, true. For this reason, if you decide to do your search on Craigslist, or any other classifieds-type of site, then it is extremely important to inform yourself about what you should be looking for, and the prices you can and should expect to pay for certain makes and models. Also, because Craigslist is an internet site that is accessible from virtually anywhere in the world, the importance of dealing with individuals locally cannot be stressed enough, in order to avoid potential scams or online money grabs.

When individuals take the necessary precautions, as listed above, Craigslist can be an extremely effective means of obtaining an ideal used car. Some important points to consider include the following:

Although the initial contact with the seller or buyer will likely be via internet, and a Craigslist email that is routed to a personal one, once that initial contact has been made, both parties should make every effort to communicate by phone, and then set up an in-person meeting. If one of the parties is reluctant to facilitate one of these steps, or insists on having all correspondence go via email, it could be an indication that something about the transaction is not entirely legitimate.

Once you have set up a meeting to view or show the vehicle, it is advisable to not meet the other party alone. Consider having a friend or colleague with you to witness the transaction, and provide a second opinion, before making any final decisions.

Use your common sense and judgement. Take your time to do your research and carefully think out your actions. Doing so will make your Craigslist car sales experience a positive one.


If you're looking for a used car under $10,000, you have many options. The best used cars under $10,000 can be found through smaller local dealerships in your town, online, or in the classified ads section of the newspaper. For those able to travel up to 50 miles to purchase a car, you can save a great deal of money.

Cars under $10,000 can last a long time if they've been taken care of. Autotrader.com, Craigslist.org, and Carmax.com are all popular consumer websites selling used cars under $10,000. They are reputable and will allow for the buyer to check out the car via a Carfax service, with a personal mechanic, or other means. Warranties can also be purchased.

So whether you have cash or financing, the best used cars under $10,000 can be found with just a little time and research, putting you and your family in a car that all will love.