Used Car Buying Guide Official

Take it on local streets and the highway. Does it pull to one side? Does the brake pedal feel "mushy"?

Use the PPI results or the VHR to justify a lower price.

Total car costs (payment, insurance, gas, and maintenance) should ideally not exceed 20% of your take-home pay. used car buying guide

All-wheel drive? Fuel efficiency? Enough room for three car seats?

Use the NHTSA website to see if there are any outstanding safety recalls that haven't been fixed. 4. The "Ground-Level" Inspection You don't need to be a mechanic to spot red flags: Take it on local streets and the highway

Don't just look for "a car." Identify what you actually need .

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars offer dealer inspections and warranties but cost more. Private sellers are cheaper but offer zero protection. 3. Vet the Vehicle’s History Never buy a used car without seeing its "papers." Use the PPI results or the VHR to justify a lower price

Look for signs of leaks, frayed belts, or "milky" oil (which suggests a blown head gasket).