Buying a used car in San Antonio Texas (car insurance, home)

[Goodieee2shoes]

Can someone give me a name of a reputable used car dealer in San Antonio (if that is even possible!)? It sounds like it may be easier in Texas to buy a used car from a dealer rather than a private seller.

I am moving to San Antonio in June and I have a current out of state drivers license, but no car insurance. When I find a car I like do I need to get insurance before I purchase it? I am just trying to figure out the steps I need to take when buying a used car.

Thanks for any tips and help!

[sinsativ]

You can buy it, but to register it, change title, or even test drive from a lot, you will have to have insurance. From a private owner, not the same. The type of car and the amount of money you want to spend depends on which dealer you will deal with.

[Goodieee2shoes]

I am looking to spend about $3000 on any decent 4 door sedan type car that is year 2000 or newer (ex: Hyundai Accent). Since I can't test drive without insurance, but can't get insurance without a car...I guess I would have to take the dealers word for it?

[sinsativ]

You can test drive with a drivers license, Im sorry, just can't buy it without ins. 3k, lot of good lots, but so as not to disparage any, its best to DM.

[Bowie]

I would be reluctant to buy from a dealer that's not registered with the big used car search engines, like CarSoup.com or San Antonio Autos, Cars, Motorcycles, Boats, RVs, dealers | mySA.com

You should also run a CarFax report, using the VIN number before buying a vehicle. It will cost you $30 to register with CarFax, but it is the surest way to find out if the vehicle you're buying was ever junked or flooded.

[banker]

CarMax is a great place to get a used car. We have purchased two vehicles from them over the years - one just back in January.

[Taco-n-Beer]

Originally Posted by banker

CarMax is a great place to get a used car. We have purchased two vehicles from them over the years - one just back in January.

I second the vote for Carmax, I have brought my daughters car, my truck, my wife's van and my daughter went and traded in the car i brought her and purchased a car from there also

CarMax is great

[Bowie]

Isn't Carmax a no-haggle dealer? I like to haggle.

[Goodieee2shoes]

Thanks for the info...I checked out CarMax and it looks like they are a little out of my price range. They don't even allow you to do a search for below $10,000. I did see some on there lower...but they were still about $7000. Does anyone know of any other used car dealers that would have cars for more around my price range: $3000? Feel free to message me if you'd rather. Thanks again!

[TXtrkgrl]

I would recommend buying from an individual. We always buy cars that are a couple of years old from individuals. The prices seem to be a LOT cheaper. Just be sure to check it out very good first. We haven't bought a bad one yet **knock on wood**.
I buy the vehicle and get insurance the same day or the next day. Yes, it is always a scary feeling driving it home with no insurance, (please don't slam me for this, I don't do it daily ) I suppose you could call your insurance company and have it added right there on the spot, I have done that before too.

Good luck. Check out craigslist.