Buying a Used Car? What To Check Before Saying Yes

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Quick Summary

Buying a used car doesn’t have to feel risky. This comprehensive guide walks through what to check before you buy, from vehicle history reports to test drives, plus the red flags that call for extra caution. Use these tips to shop smart and drive away with confidence.

If you’re looking to purchase a new vehicle, buying a used car can be cheaper than buying new, but it can also come with some uncertainty. A vehicle may look spotless on the outside but you may uncover hidden issues that don’t become obvious until after you’ve signed the paperwork. Taking some extra time to inspect the vehicle and ask the right questions can make all the difference.

At Mountain America Credit Union, we want every used car purchase to feel like a smart one. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, shop with confidence by applying these used car tips.

Ask the right questions
No matter the route you are taking, don’t be afraid to take the wheel.

Avoid surprises with these simple questions:

Why is this vehicle being sold?
Has it been involved in any accidents?
Are there maintenance or service records available?
Has the vehicle had any major repairs?
Is a warranty still in effect?
Does the seller have the title ready to transfer?

The answers won’t necessarily determine whether you should buy the vehicle, but they can give you valuable insight into how well it’s been cared for and maintained.

Research the vehicle’s history
Before you get behind the wheel, take time to look into the car’s past. A vehicle history report can reveal previous accidents, title issues, mileage discrepancies and other red flags that could affect the car’s value or reliability. Get a report through sites like Carfax or Kelley Blue Book. You’ll need the vehicle identification number (VIN) to ensure the mileage matches what’s on the report and what it says on the vehicle itself.

Remember, a history report is a helpful starting point, but it doesn’t always tell the whole story. A careful in-person inspection, often by a licensed mechanic, is just as important.

Check the details inside and out
Take a close look at the body for any dents, rust, mismatched paint or uneven panel gaps that could indicate collision repairs. Check the condition of the tires to make sure they’re wearing evenly and inspect the windshield for chips and cracks.

Inside the car, test the features you’ll use every day. Make sure the heating and air conditioning work, windows and locks are operating, lights function correctly and any electronic features—like the backup camera, stereo and key fob—all work as expected.

Don’t skip the test drive
A test drive is about more than getting a feel for the car. It’s your opportunity to identify potential mechanical issues before they become your responsibility.

Drive the vehicle on different types of roads, if possible. Listen for unusual noises, pay attention to how smoothly it accelerates and brakes, and make sure the steering feels stable. Watch for warning lights, vibrations or anything that seem abnormal. Even small issues—like a slight burning smell—could point to larger repairs down the road.

Know your deal breakers
Every buyer has a different set of priorities, but there are a few red flags that deserve extra caution. Some may be a reason to walk away entirely. Depending on your risk tolerance, each one warrants a closer look at the pros and cons. These deal breakers may include:

Evidence of flood damage.
A salvaged or branded title.
Significant accident damage.
Major fluid leaks.
Multiple warning lights on the dashboard.
Severe rust or structural damage.
Transmission or engine problems.
Missing ownership paperwork.

Keep in mind that context matters here. For instance, if you’re buying from a dealership that’s vetted by your financial institution as a preferred dealer, a salvaged or branded title may carry far less risk than it would with an unverified seller. If you’re buying from a private party, it’s worth doing extra homework—like requesting maintenance records or a mechanic’s inspection—before moving forward.

It’s easy to become attached to a vehicle you’ve been considering but passing on a questionable car will be far less costly than paying for major repairs and addressing concerns with reliability.

A little preparation goes a long way
Buying a used vehicle doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By asking the right questions, inspecting the vehicle carefully and knowing what warning signs to watch for, you’ll be in a much better position to make an informed decision.

Before you buy, check out our free used car buying checklist to evaluate your potential purchase. This comprehensive checklist includes both a quick inspection and an in-depth review. Choose the level of detail that’s right for your shopping experience.

Your journey doesn’t end at the sale
If you’ve found your new (to you) ride and brought it home—congratulations! The secret to keep your used car reliable for years to come is regular maintenance. That’s why we’ve put together 10 maintenance tips to keep your new wheels running smoothly, mile after mile. Download our free car care checklist to get started.