Is a private party seller responsible by law to tell you the problems with car?

It depends on the jurisdiction, but in general, private party sellers are not legally required to disclose known defects or problems with a car to a buyer. However, some states have laws that require sellers to disclose certain information about the vehicle, such as its mileage or if it has been in an accident. Additionally, sellers may be held liable for fraud or misrepresentation if they intentionally conceal or fail to disclose a significant problem with the car that the buyer would not have otherwise been aware of.

It's important to note that the "as-is" clause commonly used in private car sales does not necessarily absolve the seller from all responsibility for undisclosed defects. In some cases, courts have ruled that sellers can still be held liable for fraud or misrepresentation even if the car was sold "as-is."

To protect yourself as a buyer, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and have a qualified mechanic check it out before finalizing the purchase. You should also request any available maintenance records or accident history reports, and ask the seller about any known issues or problems with the car. If you have any concerns about the condition of the vehicle, it's best to walk away from the sale.