I have been a dealer and have been one since June of 2000. I have sold well over 600 cars in that time.In the state of WV there is no such thing a an as -is sale. Therfore i have made it a practice to not sell cars that I am positive are going to blow up. That is what junkyards and crushers are for. I test drive every car I sell, usually putting around 100 or so miles on them. As a result I have only had 2 warranty claims. but because I don't sell a junk car as a good one I have had to scrap some good cars that would cost too much to fix. I believe this should qualify me to advise you on how not to buy junk.There are several things you should know and do to avoid getting ripped off. But remember NO car is perfect and it is going to have something you aren't happy with. So here we go.

1. Avoid sellers who do not let you see there feedback and bidders identity. (THEY ARE PROBABLY USING SHILL BIDDERS TO DRIVE UP THE PRICE). EBAY HAS NOW HELPED THEM OUT WITH THIS ONE BY CONCELING BIDDERS IDENTITY DURING THE AUCTION.

2. AVOID sellers who sell cars as-is no refunds.

3. Watch out for sellers who charge a high price for processing fees. Most states limit the amount a dealer can charge. WV is $125. Notary fee limit in WV is $2. Temp tags are $5.

4. Be cautious about a seller who want a large non-refundable deposit. Anything over $100 is someone probably trying to take you for a ride. Don't get in with them.

5. Give serious thought about buying a car from someone who want a car picked up in 48 hours or you lose your money. A more reasonable period of time is 7 days. But remember someone who sells cars can't wait forever for there money once you have closed the deal pick up your car and pay for it within the specified time. On ebay your word is all you have.Iif it is no good????

6. Don't believe everything you read. If a description does not list defects keep on looking. 95% of cars have a leak or scratch or some other flaw that should be disclosed. ( I beleive in full disclosure on evry car I sell. If it has a problem I fix it or disclose it in the description)

7. Any dealer should be willing to let you out of a deal and give you most of your deposit back if there is a major defect in the car that was not mentioned in the ad. ( engine noise, transmission problem, frame damage, major body damage). I only charge a $50 non -refundable deposit .

8. Try to go and look at the car before you bid.

9. Anyone selling a car should have a phone # listed in the ad. Asking questions to a real person and not through e-mail can tell you a lot.

10. Read every fraud guide you can find.

11. Be cautious about vague awnsers to questions.As well as vague descriptions. REMEMBER THE DESCRIPTION IS THE CONTRACT. IF IT DOES NOT SAY ANYTHING YOU MAY HAVE JUST BOUGHT NOTHING.

12 Save all your e-mails.