How does a buyer protect them selves from the dishonest sellers on cargrus?

The so call dealer who has no history of the car they purchased and have for sale is suspicious. The dealer that tells you they have inspected the car and all is working fine is SUSPICIOUS. From the miles on the car certain items should have been replaced during scheduled maintenance. You need to know this information... no matter the seller. Be careful of low mile cars that are 8 to 10 years old. You are paying a premium price. And, not getting the service repairs completed that you would find on a higher mileage car. I like higher mile cars that have a complete maintenance records. It's not just miles that wear on a car. Sitting does damage as well. Bearing & seals dry. A high mileage car bearing have been soaking in oil. Just check the records to make sure it was clean oil. A pre purchase inspection is ok. However, nothing hides from the Dyno. A Dyno will give you operating data on the motor. Can't be hidden in a so-called 100 point inspection, that many dealers use to sell a car. Take your time.. good luck!

Again, make the dealer show you the history of the car. Don't buy into, "we have done a full inspection of the car, and, everything seems to be working fine." Make them show you the documentation of service. Brakes, rotors, plugs, alternator, water pump and other such maintenance issues associated with the miles on the car. If there are no records... as for a discount of such repairs that will be needed within the next year or 10K miles.