You have more control over your car purchase than you might think. Following are ways to avoid buying a lemon.

Research

These days, car shopping begins at your computer. Web sites like cars.com and car max.com offer extensive research tools where you can:

  • Find vehicle-safety recalls
  • Read new-car buying guides
  • Locate the latest dealer incentives and rebates
  • View the best resale values

Sites like these also allow you to read what the pros are saying about the car you want to buy, and scan customer opinions as well.

Tips for used cars

If you’re in the market for a used car, following are some steps you can take to avoid buying a lemon.

1. Use online research tools to review Kelley Blue Book used-car prices, vehicle safety recalls and expert recommendations.

2. If you know the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car you want to buy, you can look up its maintenance and accident history, odometer changes and insurance claims. Carfax.com is one of many sites that offers a VIN search tool. (There is a charge for this service.)

3. Have the car inspected by a mechanic you trust. He or she is in the best position to tell you the current condition of the car and whether there might be problems ahead, or give you a green light on the purchase.

4. If you’re purchasing a used car through a dealership, try to get a full or limited warranty. This is another area where you should check your state laws: Some states allow “as-is” sales of used cars, while others protect you by imposing “implied warranties” on used-car sales.

Finally, check the lemon laws in your state before you buy. Find out what your rights and responsibilities are in the event you purchase a lemon, and also be sure to find out how much time you have to report problems to your dealer.

For more information on the lemon laws in your state, contact a qualified attorney.