by Tiger Okeley, an Executive Board Member for Indiana Finance Company and Oak Motors. Tiger has over 40 years of expertise in the Buy Here Pay Here industry. He is dedicated to providing innovative transportation solutions and empowering underserved customers through socially and financially responsible practices.
Buying a brand-new car is exciting – it’s fresh off the lot, loaded with the latest features and (hopefully) free of mechanical issues. But let’s be real: new cars come with a hefty price tag, and not everyone has the budget or credit score to take on a big auto loan. That’s why so many people opt for used cars. And honestly? A used car can be just as reliable and long-lasting as a new one – if you know what to look for. Before you sign on the dotted line, keep this checklist handy to avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when buying a used car.
Would you buy a house without getting it inspected? The same logic applies to used cars. Have a trusted mechanic check for hidden mechanical or structural issues before committing. It’s a small investment that could save you from major headaches (and expenses) down the road.
A fresh wax job and spotless interior might catch your eye, but a car’s looks don’t tell the whole story. What really matters is under the hood, so focus on performance, reliability and maintenance history instead of being dazzled by shiny paint and leather seats.
Never buy a used car without taking it for a test drive. Pay attention to:
A quick spin around the block won’t cut it; drive it like you normally would to make sure it’s a good fit.
Some cars have outstanding safety recalls that were never fixed. To avoid buying a potential hazard, check the VIN on the NHTSA recall database before making a purchase.
The sticker price isn’t the only thing to budget for. Consider:
A “great deal” can turn into a money pit if you don’t account for these extra expenses.
A pushy seller might try to convince you to “act fast” before someone else snags the deal. But impulse-buying a car is never a good idea. Take your time, do your research and compare options before making a decision.
“If anything goes wrong, just bring it back!” That sounds nice, but if it’s not in writing, it doesn’t count. Always get agreements, warranties and guarantees in writing to protect yourself.
If anything seems off, trust your gut and move on.
Most used cars are priced with some wiggle room. Do your homework on fair market value using resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, and don’t be afraid to make a counteroffer. A little negotiation could save you hundreds – or even thousands – of dollars.
A used car can be a fantastic option for transportation if you do your due diligence. Avoid these common mistakes, take your time and make sure you’re getting a reliable vehicle that fits your budget and lifestyle. Luckily, there are places like Oak Motors that take a lot of the guesswork out of buying a used car. They offer quality pre-owned vehicles, complete with inspections and financing options – even for those with credit challenges. But as with anything, it’s always smart to do your own research and make sure the car you choose is the right fit for you. Need more car-buying tips? Check out Oak Motors for expert advice and a great selection of reliable used vehicles.
