Have you started thinking about buying another car?  Whether your old one died or you need another car for the family there are some tips you consider when looking.  Buying a vehicle is the next most expensive thing other than a house usually.  Therefore it is important to be wise and take your time on this.  Look around, get ideas, and be patient. To make sure the used car you’re looking at is in good condition, take a look at the list below for tips:

• First take a look at the body.  Always make sure to look for differences in paint.  Usually when there is a difference in the paint it was repainted because of an accident.  Depending on how severe the accident was, it could cost you big bucks.  Also look for any dings, scratches, and dents and ask how they got there.
• Open the doors, trunk and hood.  Watch out for squeaks, this could mean that it was in an accident and doesn’t open as well.  Make sure they open smoothly.  If they don’t question why.
• Check the fluids.  Check to make sure the oil and other fluids are clean.  If they are that’s a good sign that the person took care of it. 
• Test drive.  Now test drive the car for at least 10 minutes.  Listen for certain noises, and make sure everything works properly.  Be sure to run it on the highway and in the city.
• Check the breaks.  Make sure during your test drive you stop and go, don’t be afraid to test the breaks that’s an important part. 
• Test the inside.  Make sure air/heat, radio, CD player, lights both inside and out, speedometer, wipers, and everything are working. 
• Check transmission fluid.  Make sure that when you test it that it is a red color and not discolored.  Be sure to check out the transmission well, it is a very expensive part of the car.
• Check the tires.  Be sure to check the wear on the cars tires.  If they are worn ask how long they’ve used them.  If it wasn’t very long they may have ran the car into the ground.  Be sure to ask and take a good look!
• Lastly ask for a Carfax report.  This will give you details on any major accidents.

As you can see there is a lot to look into when buying a car.  All of these checks may take time but it is worth it.  Make sure all of the tips listed above are checked.  If you are suspicious of anything keep looking!