Learn About the Vehicle Before Spending Your Hard-Earned Money for the Purchase 

Thousands of people buy and sell vehicles every year. The process of buying a car is not what it used to be – consumers are more educated and focus on a car’s reliability, the model that meets their needs and how much the car should cost.  The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major issues in the supply chain, especially when it comes to the automobile market. I believe it’s safe to say that the car buying advantage has shifted from car consumer to the car dealer. 

Prospective car shoppers should do their homework upfront.  Some key considerations are your budget, your needs, your wants and the quality of the vehicle you are purchasing.  Before spending your hard-earned money, it’s important to learn about the vehicle you plan to purchase and the dealer you plan to purchase from. 

Did you know that in New York State, every automobile dealer must register with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and that a registered dealer must obey certain state and federal laws that protect your purchase of a new or used car, truck or other vehicle, including one sold as salvage;

Did you know that when you buy a used vehicle, the dealer must certify, in writing, that it is “in condition and repair to render, under normal use, satisfactory and adequate service…?”  The vehicle must have all safety equipment and emissions controls required by state and federal laws for the vehicle’s model year;

Did you know that new vehicles are also protected by manufacturers’ warranty? 

Did you know that New York State ranks among the states with the highest number of cars on the road -- over 10,000,000 – thus emphasizing the importance of the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Erie County Auto Bureau to adopt to the needs of the driving public. 

Along with the Erie County Auto Bureau, the NYS DMV’s core purpose is to assist purchasers and buyers of vehicles, provide guidelines for vehicle transfers, offer registration and licensing documents and implement vehicle rules and regulations throughout the state to ensure safe business practices between car buyers and sellers.  

To assist new or used car buyers, my office has published an informative New and Used Car Buying Guide that provides a detailed and concise synopsis of the rules and regulations governing the sale and purchase of vehicles in New York State. 

In today’s car buying market, and with any major purchase, spending thousands of dollars for a new or used vehicle can be overwhelming.  The secret to getting a fair deal and a quality vehicle is to be informed.  A little research and awareness on your end will reward you with a satisfying transaction.

If you would like a copy of this helpful brochure, click on the attachment below, request one via e-mail at ErieCountyClerkOffice@erie.gov or call the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.