If you think buying a new car is tricky, then buying used car can be trickier. However, statistics show that the number of people who purchase used cars is three times more than the number of people who purchase new cars. With so many financial choices available and cars "living longer," many people just choose to purchase used cars.

Unfortunately, not all used cars are maintained equally by their previous owners. Hence, it is important for those who wish to buy used cars to consider different factors that might affect the performance and the condition of the car.

To help those who wish to buy a car but cannot afford a new one, the following are some of the tips that can be implemented when purchasing a used car.

1.Look Around

Look around for owners who wanting to shift to a newer model, and thus wanting to sell the car of your dreams. Aside from referral, they could more or less ensure that the price is reasonable and the car’s ownership history is satisfactory. It’s also very important to conduct some research when buying used cars. On this way, you will be able to know the ideal make and model to buy, the kind of performance you want, and the prices of used cars in the market.

2.Asking the Questions

Asking about the car’s history will provide some solid information regarding the performances, repairs, and problems of the car. In this way, you will be able to compare and differentiate one car from the other.

Also it’s important to ask why are the owners letting the car go. Make sure that they are not selling the cars because of some past accidents or negative experiences.

3. The Safety Features

Being old does not mean that used cars lack of safety features. Every car, whether it is old or new, should have safety features in order to prevent some possible accident while driving. According to some reports, almost 80% of the accidents are heightened because safety features are not available in the car.

Every used car should still have its anti-lock brakes working properly and airbags that are still intact (for cars made after this requirement).

4. Check the Over-all Condition

Before purchasing a used car, you should first conduct an over-all check up on the condition of the car, from its exterior parts up to the very detail of its interior portion.

Body rust or holes are difficult to repair. Different paint shades from one panel to another, peeling and cracked paint. Threadbare tires, chipped or cracked glass, the electrical work and what’s under the hood should be checked too.

6. Going out for a Test Drive

There is no better way to know the condition of the car until it has been test-driven. So, you should make all the effort to do a test drive first before jumps into conclusion.

7. Check the Documents

Make sure that the car is not stolen; there are no liens on the vehicle, the number of previous owners, registration details, applicable taxes, and insurance papers - should all be properly documented.

Knowing these things is very important to avoid possible risks in the future.

Indeed, buying a used car can be very tedious. Nevertheless, it will give you some satisfaction and assurance that what you have bought is a good buy.