Used car buying - strategy?

[Dezmo]

Interested in thoughts on where/how to buy a used car...  probably something simple (compact size).

I see some smaller shops around, some online called cars24 that seems to be like Carvana in the USA (but saw some bad reviews).

(I'm in Pattaya now but could purchase anywhere including Bangkok.)

Does Thailand have anything like CarFax to review the history of the car?

Are cars made here reliable (in general) vs imports?  (I am a Toyota/Lexus fan... :)

Am I better off to buy from a dealer (and pay a bit more for peace of mind) - thought I saw some offer certifed cars.

Thanks.

[palooka]

Try Siam Motor World, 

 https://siammotorworld.com

Never used them personally, do know 2 people who have, 1 sell 1 buy.

Apparently very helpful with owner transfer etc. 

Also do long term rentals.

[Pinetree]

Brand dealers expensive, second hand dealers, risky. I would avoid auctions.   I would try Facebook Marketplace, or just ask around to see if any Farangs are selling privately. Check out the notice board in Big C, Pattaya Klang, ground floor,  near the toilets'. Often have the odd car and motorbike for sale.   

[cowslip]

I got a really good deal a few years back including a PX on my older pickup.

 

THe Second-hand trade in Thailand has come on in leaps and bounds in the last 10 years - but because of poor law enforcement, there are still dodgy vehicles out there - in particular ones build up from crashed vehicles.

However if you have a bit of common sense, an ability to negotiate a deal and some knowledge of motor-vehicles, you can do really well - much better than the a=verage expats who knows nothing and just thinks everyone is out to t=riop him off.

If you look t cars between 1 and 2 years old you should still get one under the manufacturers warranty