2. The Consumer Guide Used Car Rating Guide has listing with good and bad points of used cars. 3. Check the horn, lights, heat,
air-conditioning, brakes, seat belts, steering, and seats out before you buy. Also look for evidence that indicates the car was in a major accident.
4. Check with the previous owner for the car's accident
and maintenance record. You may find the owner's name written on the owner's manual in glove compartment. Also for a fee, you may be able to get some information from your state department of motor vehicles if you have
the car identification number which can tell you if the car has been in previous accidents.
5. Have a mechanic you trust go over the car and alert you to any potential problems.
6. Check the
car for evidence of tampering like any marks on the odometer or numbers that don't line up. Also see if the odometer miles are more than mileage entered on oil stickers, inspection stickers, or tire warranty cards.
7. Look at the tires. If the odometer reads less than 25,000 miles, the car should have the original tires--and they should all be the same brand and probably radials.
8.
