What to Look for When Buying a Used Car: Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes

Buying a car is a big decision, and more buyers than ever are turning to the used car market to find a good deal. While new cars and certified pre-owned vehicles from dealerships can offer peace of mind with warranties and inspection standards, many people opt to buy used cars from dealerships or private sellers to save money.

But how do you know you’re getting a reliable vehicle and not a headache on wheels? At BBack Car Care, we see firsthand what can happen when buyers don’t do their homework. Here’s a handy checklist of what to research and inspect before you hand over your hard-earned cash.

Do Your Homework: Research First

Before even seeing the car in person, take time to research:

• CarFax or AutoCheck Reports: These reports reveal the car’s history, including accidents, title issues, service history, and whether it’s been reported as a total loss or flood-damaged.
• Recall Notices: Search the make and model to see if there are any open recalls. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers a free VIN lookup tool.
• Service Records: If the seller has detailed service records, that’s a great sign the car has been well maintained. Gaps or missing records can be a red flag.

It’s also smart to look up common issues or known problems with the specific make, model, and year you’re considering. Online forums and consumer reports can be great resources.

Inspect Carefully: Major Items to Watch For

When you check out the car in person, keep an eye on these key areas:

• Tires: Look at the tread depth and check for uneven wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
• Battery: If possible, ask how old the battery is. A battery near the end of its life can be an unexpected expense.
• Brakes: Listen for squeaking or grinding, and check the brake pads and rotors for wear.
• Body and Frame: Look for rust spots, mismatched paint, and panel gaps that might indicate previous accidents or body repairs.
• Under the Hood: Check fluid levels and conditions—dirty oil, low coolant, or dark transmission fluid are signs of poor maintenance.
• Interior: Make sure all electronics, windows, and features like the air conditioning and heater are working properly.

Don’t Skip the Test Drive

A test drive can tell you a lot about a car’s health. Listen for strange noises, check how the car handles and brakes, and pay attention to how smoothly it accelerates and shifts.

Get a Professional Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even if everything seems fine, there could be hidden issues you won’t catch on your own. That’s why BBack Car Care proudly offers pre-purchase inspections for used cars. Our expert mechanics perform a thorough, impartial check of the entire vehicle—from the engine and transmission to the brakes, tires, and suspension—and give you a detailed report so you can buy with confidence.

Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, having a trusted mechanic give the car a once-over can save you from costly surprises down the road.

Your Next Used Car: Make Sure It’s a Good One

Buying a used car can be a smart financial move—if you do it right. With the proper research and a professional inspection, you’ll be much better equipped to make a wise choice. Contact BBack Car Care today to schedule your pre-purchase inspection and make sure your next car is a keeper, not a clunker!