If you are not buying from a registered dealer, make sure you don't become a curbsider's victim. Curbsiders are imposters who pose as private individuals, but are actually in the business of selling stolen, rebuilt or odometer-tampered vehicles. These fraud artists sell damaged or defective cars to unsuspecting consumers.

Insist the private seller provide you with an official Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP), which tells you the history of the car's ownership. Don't sign the deal without it. If the seller refuses to provide it, BEWARE!

Make sure the car you are buying is registered in the name of the seller, if it isn't, ask questions and find out why. Otherwise, you may be buying the vehicle from a curbsider!

Before you agree to buy the car, get an unbiased opinion from a mechanic you trust.

Remember, if you buy from a curbsider you could be buying a car that has been stolen or damaged -- and you have nowhere to turn if things go wrong. Don't take any risks  -- AVOID CURBSIDERS!