What's the Most Important Rule?

I've been asked many times, "What's the most important thing I need to know when it comes to buying and selling a used car?" I have a few "Ironclad Rules" but perhaps the most important principle is this: "You make your money when you buy, not when you sell." I explain what I mean in this short video.

Inspect Before You Buy: Part I

This is the first of a three-part series on inspecting a vehicle before you buy. Ironclad rule: Always physically inspect the vehicle before you buy. Otherwise, you don't know what you're getting. This video focuses on the exterior, including the undercarriage. Our inspection in this video is of a 1994 Ford F-150 (Ninth Generation, OBS) 4x4. See chapter 3 in Bill's Guide for much more. Also, download the free inspection worksheet from the Resources section.

Inspect Before You Buy, Part II

This is the second of a three-part series on inspecting a vehicle before you buy. Remember Bill's Ironclad Rule: Always physically inspect before you buy. Today we inspect the interior and the engine compartment. Our inspection in this video is of a 1994 Ford F-150 (Ninth Generation, OBS) 4x4.

Inspect Before You Buy, Part III:

The Test Drive

This is the third of a three-part series on inspecting a vehicle before you buy. Bill has a few "Ironclad Rules" when it comes to buying or selling a car, and here is one of them: Always physically inspect the vehicle before you buy. Part III provides an overview of the test drive. Our inspection in this video is of a 1994 Ford F150 (Ninth Generation, OBS) 4x4.

Removing Headlight Haze

This video teaches viewers how to remove oxidation from modern plastic headlight lens. That frosted, sometimes orange, haze is not only unattractive, but the loss of lens transparency creates danger for nighttime driving. See chapter 5 in Bill's Guide for much more on prepping a car for sale.
Presented by Bill Rosen.
Videography by Tim Schoen.

Recognizing Engine Blow-by

From the comment section, I received this request to asking me to make a video showing the inspection of a car that I would not buy, and why. So in this video I inspect the engine of a 2015 Lincoln MXC with a 2.0L Turbo-boost with the dreaded blow-by. Ironclad Rule: Always physically inspect the vehicle before you buy. Without a physical inspection this major engine problem could be missed, ending badly for the buyer.

Installing a Pontiac Hood-mounted Tachometer

One of the coolest options Pontiac Motor Division ever offered was a late 60s/early 70s hood-mounted tach. Muscle car lovers--GTO and Firebird alike--couldn't get enough. Now available in the aftermarket, we discuss the steps to install this hood tach, along with important measurements and placement. See the Resources section of the website for downloadable template.

Always Count the Money Together

In this short video Bill discusses another of his "Ironclad Rules" of buying or selling a used car: Always Count the Money Together. Here's why from a recent sale. For more essential tips on how to avoid problems during the actual transaction, see chapter 6 in Bill's Guide. Presented by Bill Rosen.

Inspecting a Car That's Been Sitting

Serious profit can be made when you buy a car cheap. And a nonrunning car is a perfect candidate for a great buy. In this video Bill goes over a few steps of inspecting a car that's been sitting undriven for an extending time. Presented by Bill Rosen.
Videography by Tim Schoen.

Your Ad Should Include a Cold Start Video

When you're ready to market a vehicle you're selling, always include a cold start video in your online ad. It will grab your buyer's attention and provide evidence that the vehicle (in this case a grand touring bike) is worth seeing in person. I sold this Honda Goldwing for a neighbor. This bike sold quickly for the right price.

Your Ad Should Include Video of the Engine at Idle

Buyers of classic cars are often willing to buy from thousands of miles away without a personal physical inspection. This means sellers need to provide as much detail as possible. In this short video we take a listen to a 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado idling for an online ad I ran. This Toro came with a 425 cubit inch engine with a factory Rochester quadrajet carburetor. I had just tuned up the engine, touched up the engine compartment, and replaced the rusted-out exhaust with NOS resonators. Sound is sensory, and the senses sell. The Toro's exhaust notes are magic to the ears.

Should I Sell It or Keep It?

From the comments section comes this viewer's question: "How do I decide whether I should keep my current vehicle or sell it and buy something else?" Great question! I answer that question and give viewers some critical things to consider as they make this decision.