For many people, purchasing a vehicle can be very stressful and time consuming. Pinellas County Justice and Consumer Services offers these tips to help consumers make their best deal and avoid becoming the victims of aggressive salespeople:

• Remember that there's no three-day right to cancel on the purchase of any new or used vehicles. Once you've signed the contract and accepted delivery, the contract is binding.
• It's very important to read and understand all of the documents you're signing when you're buying a car. Never sign any documents that contain blank statements and, if you don't understand something in the contract, make sure the salesperson explains it.
• Ask about warranties and extending warranties, especially for used vehicles.
• If you are interested in buying a used vehicle, have your own personal mechanic check under the hood before you purchase it.
• Shop around. Never settle on the first car you see. It is always a good idea to shop around to see if you can get a better deal somewhere else.

For information on consumer issues, call the Pinellas County Department of Justice and Consumer Services at (727) 464-6200. Visit www.pinellascounty.org for easy-to-download complaint forms or for more information about your rights as a consumer.

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