We all make mistakes, but there are mistakes that cost us much more in terms of time and money. When buying a used car, you should be in the lookout to not make mistakes because a slight one might end up costing you more than just in terms of money.  The cost you will have to pay is huge especially when you take into consideration the time you will spend trying to correct your mistake.

There are many mistakes used car buyers make; we’ve decided to list 5 of the most common and serious mistakes that you should avoid when you’re shopping for a used car.

1. Ignoring the Vehicle History Report

If you want to understand how to deal with the future of anything you are buying, it is crucial that you are aware of its past history. When it comes to shopping around for used car inventory, this means that you should ask for a vehicle history report when purchasing a vehicle, or buy one yourself. Since some private vehicle sellers will not have this report, you can find a list of the top Used Vehicle Reports (aka VIN Checks) by entering your VIN on their website. If you are trying to decide between several used vehicles, a Vehicle History Report might be just what you need to make the final decision. The info on this report will be useful in making important buying decisions.

2. Ignoring the Vehicle Inspection Report

It is not outrageous to ask for the vehicle inspection report when buying a used car. In fact, it is your right to know all the details before you make that important purchase. By law, the used car seller SHOULD disclose all issues with the car, but this does not always happen so if the report is not available and you do not have a mechanic to check the vehicle for you, walking away might be the best decision you will make.

Alternatively, there are several used vehicle inspection websites that you can contact to see if they have any inspectors in the area. This might cost a few dollars but when purchasing from a private seller, you should be willing to pay a mechanic to check the vehicle because whatever amount you will pay will not be anywhere close to what you will spend if the transmission, or another vital part, fails shortly after the purchase.

3. Not Checking Fuel Consumption

Fuel Consumption MPG Most people will talk about a fuel efficient vehicle before they go out shopping. It is however amazing how many people go to the car dealership and drive a fuel guzzler just because it is what they always dream of. With the gas prices continuously skyrocketing and not expected to get lower anytime soon, you cannot afford to ignore the fuel efficiency factor when purchasing a vehicle. You can research and find out the gas mileage using VIN Decoder of different vehicles so that you can go out shopping wiser and sufficiently informed on the topic of fuel efficiency and consumption.

4. Ignoring CPO or Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

It is highly recommended that you certify a used vehicle. This is because these vehicles are high standard and have low mileage with any problems repaired. The vehicle manufacture (note that not the dealer) will make a further step to provide different benefits including extended warranties. It is obvious that a certified pre-owned vehicle will require you to dig deeper into your pocket but the good part is that the benefits will not go away with the change in ownership.  If you need a used vehicle and you do not have the time to shop around checking the safety and all that, then a certified pre-owned vehicle is what you should go for.

5. Not Shopping and Comparing Different Vehicles

Shopping for a used car is no different from any other purchases you do. The same way you move from store to store looking for the best deal on a cell phone or a pair of shoes; you should do the same when buying a vehicle. The internet offers quite a number of sites that can be used in checking the vehicles that are available for sale in your area. Most of these sites will have pictures and descriptions that can assist in decision making. It’s normal to check out several cars and then decide on the best of the bunch; don’t jump the gun and buy the first “good” car that you check out.

Always remember that a salespeople at the dealers (and private sellers as well) will tell you just about anything to convince you to make the purchase and because of this, make sure you have the vehicle checked for all the features they claim it has, then and only then will you be in a good position to make the purchase.

The Best Thing You Can Do TO Avoid Getting Scammed

One of the best things you can do (for your wallet AND for your sanity) is to do your research before buying a car. Another is to buy a vehicle history VIN Check. Not only will you find out about the history of the car and if it’s been in any accidents, but you will also see if the vehicle has had any title brands due to accidents, thefts, natural disasters, etc.

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