How to Spot a Great Used Vehicle: A Buyer’s Guide
Buying a used car doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game. Whether it’s your first time or you’re just trying to avoid a lemon, knowing what to look for can help you find a car you’ll love…and trust.
Simple, no-stress guide to spotting a solid used vehicle.
1. Start with a good look around
Before you even turn on the engine, take a few minutes to walk around the car.
- Look for any rust, scratches, or dents
- Check that the doors, trunk, and hood open and close properly
- Peek at the gaps between panels—if they’re uneven, it could mean past accident damage
- Check the tires. Worn out or uneven treads can point to alignment or suspension issues
- Look underneath for any signs of leaks. Wet spots under the car? Not a great sign
2. Slide into the driver’s seat
Once you’re inside, take a moment to give everything a quick test. Here are some simple checks you might find helpful to keep in mind:
- Make sure the windows, locks, headlights, AC, and radio all work
- Check the seats and carpets, bad smells, stains, or rips might be tough to clean
- Turn the key and watch the dashboard lights. They should all light up briefly, then turn off. Warning lights that stay on could mean expensive fixes.
- Check the mileage. A higher mileage is perfectly fine as long as the car has been well-maintained. However, if it’s unusually low for its age, that’s definitely something worth asking about.
3. Take it for a spin
Taking a test drive is an exciting and important part of choosing a new car. It gives you the chance to truly experience how the vehicle feels and responds to your driving style. If possible, consider bringing along a trusted mechanic or friend who knows about cars to help you evaluate.
Some things to keep in mind:
- Start the engine. It should turn over easily without weird noises.
- Hit the brakes. Do they feel smooth and responsive? No pulling or squeaking?
- Drive on a mix of roads—residential and highway if you can.
- Pay attention to how the steering feels. It should be smooth and straight. Listen for anything unusual, such as clunking, grinding, or whining.
- Test how it shifts. If it’s automatic, shifts should feel smooth. If it’s manual, the clutch should feel firm, not squishy.
4. Check the paperwork
You wouldn’t buy a house without a history, and the same goes for a car.
Here’s what you want to confirm on paper:
- Ask for a Carfax or vehicle history report. This will show accidents, service records, and past ownership
- Check the VIN (vehicle identification number) and make sure it matches the paperwork
- See if service records are available. A car that’s been regularly maintained is usually a safer bet
- Ask if there’s any warranty left or if the dealer includes one
- At Go Auto, we make this easy by giving you full history reports, full inspections, and the confidence of buying from a trusted dealership
Buying certified takes a lot of pressure off.
So, here’s what you get with Go Auto:
- Every car is fully inspected by certified technicians
- We check everything—brakes, electronics, safety features, the works
- You get flexible financing (starting at 3.99 percent on select vehicles)
- And we back it up with warranty options and a team that’s here to help
Our main goal is to ensure you feel happy and confident, not just when you drive off the lot, but for many miles to come.
Bottom line? You’re in control.
Buying used doesn’t have to be stressful. When you know what to look for and shop with a dealership you trust, the whole process becomes way easier, and even kind of fun.
