Avoid These Costly Mistakes When Buying a Used Car
Discover 30 common pitfalls buyers face and learn tips to avoid costly errors during used car purchases.
30 Common Mistakes People Make When Buying a Used Car
1. Not setting a realistic budget
2. Not researching the specific model
3. Not checking the vehicle's value
4. Buying the first car you see
5. Buying with emotion, not logic
6. Not considering the total cost of ownership
7. Skipping the pre-purchase inspection
8. Buying from a seller who refuses inspection
9. Not test driving on the highway
10. Not test driving on rough roads
11. Not testing all features
12. Not checking the underside for rust
13. Not checking the tire condition
14. Not checking fluid colors and smells
15. Not checking for leaks
16. Not getting a vehicle history report
17. Not checking the VIN against the title
18. Not checking service records
19. Buying a car with a salvage title without understanding the risks
20. Not checking for outstanding recalls
21. Buying a car from a flood zone without checking
22. Not negotiating the price
23. Negotiating based on the monthly payment, not the total price
24. Not getting pre-approved for financing
25. Buying unnecessary add-ons
26. Trading in your car without researching its value
27. Putting money down without a contract
28. Signing without reading
29. Not having the car re-inspected before final purchase
30. Forgetting to transfer the title and registration
The Bottom Line
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Buying a used car is one of the largest purchases most people will make. Yet many buyers walk into the transaction armed with myths, not facts. They make decisions based on advice from friends, family, and internet forums that is simply wrong. These mistakes cost buyers thousands of dollars and years of frustration.
Here are 30 common mistakes people make when buying a used car—and how to avoid them.