Self-Check

Even if you’re somewhat inexperienced with cars and auto repairs, it’s important to do a basic inspection of the car. Some of the things you should check to make sure the vehicle is in good condition:

• Check the tire treads for excessive wear
• Check the headlights and floorboards for signs of moisture, which could indicate if the car has been in a flood
• Look closely at the paint job for signs someone may have painted over rust
• Drive the car with the radio off and listen for any strange sounds

If you proceed to buy the vehicle after your self-check, you could still protect against serious problems that may arise by getting an extended warranty.

Ask the Pros & Trusted Friends

To determine the quality of a used car, you should consider hiring a trusted mechanic who can conduct a thorough examination of the vehicle. Trusted mechanics may find things you didn’t notice such as structural issues or engine problems. They could raise questions you may not have thought to ask, and identify whether the car is driving the way it should. The cost of having a professional check the vehicle could end up saving you a great deal of money in the long run.

It’s also a good idea to bring a trusted friend or family member with you during the inspection and buying process. Someone who’s not invested in the outcome could be more objective than you under the circumstances, alerting you to an issue you may have missed or preventing you from making an impulsive decision.

Check the Records

All cars have a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that can help you determine the car’s history. Online services, such as Carfax, use the VIN to provide you with a detailed report of the car’s records. These records could tell you whether a vehicle has been totaled or how many times it has been in a collision. Only after checking the records, assuming your other inspections pass muster, should you then consider how you will finance the purchase.

Mistake #1: Buying the First Car You See

If you’re a busy person, it may be tempting to buy the first vehicle that meets your minimum requirements. Before you finance a car, however, it’s worth doing some comparison shopping to see if you’re getting a good deal. Take the time now so you can save time and money down the road. Websites such as Kelly Blue Book, NADA, and Edmunds can help you research and compare vehicles so you can narrow down the car options that may be right for you.

Mistake #2: Skipping the Test Drive

Maybe you have a lot of driving experience, and you’re certain that you know how the make and model of a car will drive. Even if you’re sure that you’ve found the car of your dreams, it’s always important to test drive the vehicle. What if the car has some major blind spots or the seats droop too low or the car jerks too much when starting and stopping? You never know what issues might come up once you’re actually behind the wheel, and it’s always better to experience the ride before you’ve made your purchase.

Mistake #3: Buying a Car That Needs Work

If you buy a car that already needs work, you could end up getting yourself into a sticky financial situation. While you may be getting the car at a lower price, any small issues can increase the likelihood of major repairs down the road. It’s better to err on the side of caution, and make sure you’re buying a reliable car that hasn’t already experienced its fair share of damage. If you think the car could have any potential problems, it may also be a good idea to protect your investment by getting or extending a warranty.

Mistake #4: Ignoring the Vehicle History

You might not immediately recognize a car that’s had issues or been in an accident. It’s therefore important to check the vehicle history report. These records contain critical information about service, recalls, repairs and collisions. Those who skip this step could miss out on some important safety information that may prevent headaches in the long run. It’s always helpful to check the full vehicle history report with Carfax before buying any car, so you can know exactly what you’re getting.

Mistake #5: Buying More Than You Can Afford

The price of the car is not the only cost associated with driving. When you are financing your car, remember that you have to pay for car insurance, gas mileage, routine maintenance, repairs and vehicle registration. If you forget to consider these other costs, you may end up with a car that’s out of your budget.