Simple Guidelines to Bring Home a Used Car in Oregon

The automobile has not merely taken over the street; it has been dissolved in every inch of our culture. We, Americans are totally passionate about our cars. It has totally become a part of our life, a part of our own self.

If you don’t own a car, you haven’t experienced the joy and thrill associated with it. Just holding the steering gives a great adrenaline rush. If you want to buy a car in Oregon, there are plenty of options.

Don’t restrict yourself to new cars. Pre-owned cars can also serve your purpose. Don’t worry about buying a lemon. Oregon DMV now requires the manufacturer to add “Lemon Law Buyback” to the title. So, by looking at the title you will be able to learn about the car’s history.

There is another incentive for buying a used car. As the year is approaching its end, dealers would be more interested in achieving their sales target. It is the right time to buy a used car. You will get several discounts and incentives.

Information Leads to Perfection

You must remember that buying a car is a major decision. Even if you buy a used car, it will be with you for at least 2-3 years. So, it is important that you take time to think about it. You can take a well thought decision only after knowing everything about buying a used car in the Beaver State.

This article will take you through the entire process of buying a used car. Right from budget and finance to registration with the Oregon DMV, you will understand everything. So, let’s start with it.

Money – Wise

When it comes to money, it is important that you stay on top of things. First of all, think how much money you can spend on the car. Well, there are used car loans but hardly anyone will offer you money for paying registration fees and insurance. All the collateral expenses will be borne by you. Make arrangements for it and make regular loan payments.

Needs Are the Basic Drive for Car Purchase

The basic work of your car is to take you places. It is important that it does its work effectively. If you live in the hilly region of Cascades, then you definitely need a sturdy SUV. If your home is near the windswept Pacific region, then almost any car would be fine for you. Not only geography, but it is essential that you consider your needs. If you are student, it is important that you consider a low maintenance car. If you have to travel long distances every day, a fuel- efficient car is required.

Efforts in Gaining Knowledge Is Never Wasted

A well – prepared customer wins half the battle. If the seller knows that you are unaware of car buying concepts, he’ll take you for a ride (a ride which will definitely include exorbitant prices).

If you want to buy an electric car model, Electrifying Times is an information magazine published in Oregon. Sports Car Market is another magazine in Oregon. You must also take opinion from your family and friends. If you are lucky, you may end up buying a good car from your cousin.

Choosing Your Car – Let your mind do the work

Once you get knowledge about cars, it’s time to get out and play your game. Dealers are interested in making profit. So, it is essential that you play your cards right. This is the time to make a rational decision. Let emotions take the back seat.

On the basis of your needs, choose your car. You must never narrow down your search to one. Keep your options open.

Make a choice of 3 or 4 of your favorites cars. Get VIN of each car to know the car history. Avoid car with a salvage title or several accidents.

You must ask your trusted mechanic to inspect the vehicles. Ask him to check for any signs of water and rust. If any vehicle is flooded, it will have moisture in the headlight/ tail-light compartment or the engine will be rusted.

Once the mechanic Okays the cars, test drive is essential. You get the best idea when you use it. Pay attention to the car’s steering ability and acceleration.

After test driving the cars, you will be able to select the best one. After you make a choice, it’s time for registration.

Title and Registration

A dealer in Oregon does the work of submitting title and registration. If you bought your car through a private party, you will have to undertake the process. In any case, knowing the process can make things easier for you.

If you are buying a used car, you must get the car title from the seller. Ask the previous owner to release his interest in car by signing the reverse side of the title. The seller will write your name and address, date of sale, sales price on it. Ensure that the information is accurate.

He will also have to sign the Bill of Sale (Form 735-501). It is mandatory for the seller to notify the DMV about the sale within 10 days from the date of sale. As a buyer, it is your responsibility to apply for a title within 30 days of purchase. If you don’t do so, you will be charged a late title transfer fee. The fee is $ 25 (31- 60 days). After 60 days, you will be charged $ 50.

See that the Lien Release (Form 735-524) form is duly filled.

After you receive these documents from the seller, you will have to fill the Application for Title and Registration (Form 735-226). If you are renewing your old license plates, give insurance information. The title fees are $77. It is important to carry cash or check as DMV doesn’t accept debit or credit cards.

There are some conditions if you are renewing your license plates and you live in Portland or Rogue Valley (Medford) area, or if you are trying to register a car with no Oregon registration. It is essential that you pass Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) inspection. The requirement is as follows:

1. Portland – 1975 models and newer require testing

2. Medford – 20 years old and newer models must be tested.

You will have to undergo the tests even if your vehicle runs on alternative fuels and hybrids. If you decide on choosing a specialty plate, you will have to mention the name in the “Remarks” section.

If you want to transfer the old plates, you can do that. Your license plate should be one that the DMV still issues. Also, it can be transferred to same vehicle type only. The State DMV charges $6 as transfer fee.

Once the DMV headquarters receive your applications and documents, your plates will be mailed to you in 5-10 business days. You will receive car title in about three to five weeks.

So, that’s how you can go from walking on two to cruising on four. Buying a car in Oregon is simple and easy.

So, when are you going to change from tiring walks to comfortable cars?

All the best for change!