[Smooth]

What do you look for when buying a used car? I am looking into possibly getting a new car when I get to Dahlgren, Virginia in October for school. What measures have you taken when buying a used car? Do you have somebody you know look over cars for you? I know if a car is running good if I test drive it, but whether it looks/sounds good under the hood is not my specialty.

[Hotrod25]

I always take any vehicle that I am looking to buy to my dads house. He is the one that usually fixes my cars so he is the one that gets to look at them before I buy them.

[Marvin]

Low miles is the main thing I look for. Even if a used car is older, if it has low miles, that's a huge plus in my book. The more mileage on it, the more wear and tear it has gone through.

[vroombaby]

Price and durability for its age. I bought a few years ago when I had to rebuild my credit and I was lucky to find an awesome place in town. I ended up buying 3 different vehicles from them because both price and the auto were both just perfect in my eyes.

[philio]

I look for signs that the car has received regular maintenance. I also test drive it on separate occasions and take it to a mechanic to have it checked out.

[Devoted2Dodge]

My husband knows cars pretty well so he always goes with me. We test drive it a few times and then we call my dad. My dad then does his inspection and test drive. If all is good then we buy the car. I am lucky to have car guys in my family. I suggest you find a family member or friend who knows about cars to help you pick out a good used car.

[Skippy]

I usually take it to a mechanic for a once over before I decide to purchase. I also look for signs of maintenance and low mileage like everyone else.

[MotorX]

I'm going to keep these tips in mind for when I go looking for a car. My dad knows some about cars, so hopefully he will be able to help me get a good one.