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How to Read Used Car Classified Ads

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Trying to find a reliable used car to purchase is challenging no matter what your budget range is. Locating the make and model you desire that is in good condition with reasonable miles may require hours of searching through classified ads. The terminology and abbreviations in used car ads are not always the easiest to understand. Learning how to read used car classified ads can cut down on your search time and get you the keys to your new pre-owned car while limiting hassle and confusion.


  1. 1
    Decide the make and model of car before you want before you begin to search in used car classified ads.
    • Once you know the type of used car you would like to purchase, you can learn various spellings or abbreviations that might be used for it in used car classified ads.
  2. 2
    Conduct research online and in newspapers to begin learning how to read used car classified ads.
    • Online used car ads often have more detailed information, making them easier to read.
    • Used car ads in newspapers are more likely to use abbreviations to save space. It may help to review used car classified ads in various newspapers to see how the abbreviations and ads vary from publication to publication.
  3. 3
    Study car term abbreviations to help you better understand how to read used car classified ads.
    • Classified ads often use abbreviations to save space. For example, A/C means air conditioning, cond. stands for the condition of the car, DR refers to the number of doors the car has, ABS is short for anti-lock breaking system and FSBO means for sale by owner,
  4. 4
    Understand that specific terminology is used in car ads.
    • For example, loaded means the car has most extra features available. Under Blue Book refers to the price of the car being less than its estimated value. Original miles means that the mileage being advertised is accurate. Clean simply implies that the used car is in good condition.
  5. 5
    Seek out used car classified ads that are clearly written with specific details of the basics about the car.
    • The best used car ads use understandable car term abbreviations, provide the specifics such as make, model, engine type, color and condition, and give accurate contact information of the seller.
  6. 6
    Educate yourself on the pricing terminology in used car ads.
    • For example, "obo" means or best offer, and K stands for thousand, such as in $5K. Make offer means that the seller is open to negotiation. Firm means that the seller will not take less for the used car than the asking price.
  7. 7
    Compare the information you get from the used car classified ad to the information you get when you contact the seller or dealer.
    • Verify information from all available sources to rule out deceptive ads prior to making an offer or purchase.

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  • Always confirm the accuracy of the details in a used car ad with the seller prior to purchasing a vehicle.
  • Don't be afraid to ask if you don't understand an abbreviation in a used car classified ad.
  • Ask the seller as many questions as necessary if you are unclear on pricing expectations based on the information in the used car classified ad.


  • Don't be too eager to buy a used car based solely on what the car ad says. You might find that it is not such a good deal once you inspect the car in person.
  • Inspect a used car in person. Sellers sometimes overemphasize the good points about a vehicle in a used car classified ad and under-emphasize known issues or problems. Make sure the details in the ad match the actual car.

Article Info

Categories: Used Cars


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