How to Buy Used Car Quickly
 

This may seem a silly question, but I have never encountered this before. I am out of town, shopping for used cars. If I find one, can I buy it quickly so I can drive it home. Anyone have advice?

Here is the story. We left yesterday (Thanksgiving) for Denver in our trusty 92 Accord that has 235k miles. After about 50 miles, it threw a rod. Got a tow back, and headed out in the iX.

This is a problem because I was planning on taking the SC out of commission next week for a CIS->EFI conversion, but we need two working cars. Since we are in a big city, decided to look for used cars and if we find what we like, drive it home. We've located a couple of 98 M3s to inspect. They are both at dealers.

Any advice on how to actually purchase a car out of town on short notice? Could I put in on a CC until I return home and work with my bank? Other thoughts?

I don't think a dealer would put the full amount on a CC because that would cost them a lot of money.

I'd just go to the dealer and talk to them. If you're looking to buy, I'm 100% sure they'll find a way to put you in a car TODAY! That's what they do.

If you are planning on paying the cash for the car, most dealers will just take a personal check. Write the check and you're done.

If you are financing, they'll do that for you, no problem.

If I had planned ahead, this would have been easier, but this plan came together on the drive up. Didn't even bring a checkbook. I'm sure your right about a dealer finding a way to make this work.

Problem solved. Called my bank. They just use my checking account and they'll sort it out when I return.

Thanks for the replies. I drove home yesterday in a black 1998 M3 sedan. Should make a good family car!

A dealer's sole purpose in life is to sell cars - if they want to survive, they'll find a way to make it work for you. I'd let it be their problem - that's one of the things your business entitles you to.