Im thinking to buy a 1997 to 2008 Jeep Cherokee etc.
I also suspect that cars that old will turn into a money pit.
Therefore what are some rules of thunb when buying a used car from owner ?
How to safely buy a used Jeep? Don't buy a used Jeep.
Buying an old car you need something that doesn't break, or something that is easy (cheap) to fix when it does.
Cars that fall into the first category include Toyotas, Hondas, Mazdas, pre-1990 Mercedes Benz. Cars that fall into the second category are Ford and GM, Hyundai.
Jeep lets you down on both counts, but if you have to have one, buy on condition not mileage. Check out the owner as much as the car.
Everybody will tell you to "Take it to a mechanic." But here's the problem, Mechanics will not check the car out for free. You will have to pay roughly $100 for them to inspect the car only to tell you word for word, "Buddy I wouldn't buy this car if I were you." Imagine doing that for 10 to 15 cars and having nothing to show for it. Not much chance in saving money now is there?
"rules of thunb when buying a used car from owner ?"
Avoid Jeeps more than 1 year old.
The first step would be not to buy a jeep.
You're right, cars that old are a crap shoot. Unless you have technical knowledge, take it to a mechanic before you commit to buy and have it inspected.
Rule #1!: No title = NO SALE! When buying from a private seller, if the seller can not show you a valid, clear title with HIS NAME in the owner's space, DO NOT BUY THE CAR!
Rule #2: Always have a used car inspected by a mechanic who you trust before making an offer to buy it.
Rule #3: If you're buying from a dealer, GET IT IN WRITING! Doesn't matter what the salesman tells you. If it's not on paper, it never happened!
Rule #4: Once you buy a used car, IT'S YOUR CAR AND YOUR PROBLEM! You can't give it back just because you don't like it or it smells funny or some other stupid excuse. Once you sign the title, you own the car. DEAL WITH IT!
If you're determined to buy a Jeep..Oh well! Ask the owner if you can take it to a mechanic for assessment. Jeeps are very, very unreliable.