8 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Used Car

8 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Used Car

There's not a single person out there that likes to talk about past mistakes, especially when it comes to buying a used car. It's quite a sensitive topic, but on the other hand, there are many people who want to know what mistakes they need to avoid. That's why we've gathered the top 8 mistakes we've seen people make over the years when buying a used car.

1. Not checking a dealer's reputation

There are plenty of dealerships out there, and almost all of them have used car inventory. For your sake, take some time and check the dealers' reputations in your local area, with the help of sites, like Google, Yelp, and DealerRater. If you see dealerships that have poor reviews, there’s no need for you to go there.

2. Act as a Perfectionist

There’s no doubt that everyone who is shopping for a used car wants to get the best possible deal out there and have an amazing vehicle with low mileage, that also looks like brand-new. Keep in mind that you’re shopping for a used car, not a new one. Don’t be a perfectionist, because you might not even get the used car you want.

3. Being indecisive

If you finally stumble upon a great deal on a car that fits your requirements, just buy it! You can be 100 percent certain that there are a lot of other buyers looking for the same great deal you’ve found, and if you don’t act on time, because you can’t make a final decision, the car will be long gone.

4. Not test driving a car

How can you buy a car without test driving it first? It may come as a surprise for you, but it happens more often than you think. Don’t be that person. Get in the car and take it for a spin. By doing it, you’ll know if this is the right car for you.

5. Will you be able to afford it

Prior to even considering a used car purchase, take some time and check your finances. Check every aspect of your finances, so that you’ll know what to look for and be certain that you can afford it. You don’t want to find the perfect car for you and later realize that you simply can’t afford it. Have a word with your local technician if you need help determining what you can actually afford and whether or not he performs a used car inspection.

6. Not asking for a car report

Car reports are an integral part of the entire used car shopping process, along with the used car inspection. They contain important information about a car, including whether or not it carries a salvage title, had flood damage or has been in major road accidents. You have to find a dealership that provides this type of report so you can have the peace of mind you deserve.

7. Don’t know what you want

When it comes to car preferences, keep in mind that it’s not just about the color, make, features, or model. You must have a clear idea about what you are looking for. Do you want an SUV or a regular vehicle? How many people are you planning on driving in it? What type of vehicle you need based on where you live? Knowing what you don’t want can be just as important as knowing what you do want, and both help you spend less time looking.

8. Not doing your homework

If you don’t have an idea about what is, in fact, the fair price for what you want or need, then you are going to have a hard time finding a good deal for a used car. You need to take some time and get acquainted with the prices for the type of cars you’re looking for. In order to explore pricing, visit sites like Edmunds, NADA Guides, and Kelly Blue Book. You need to look for a site that do a good job with providing accurate information about what people in your area are paying.


Whether it’s new or used, shopping for a car can be really overwhelming. There are various factors to take into account, along with various costs. We sincerely hope that with the tips above, we’ve helped you make a conscious and reasonable decision.