What I Wish I Knew Before Buying a Used Car

Thinking about buying a used car?

I’ve been there. And if I could go back, I’d do it way differently. Here’s what I wish someone told me before I signed the papers.

1. Just Because It Looks Good Doesn’t Mean It Is

That shiny paint and clean interior?

Means nothing if the engine's toast.

I learned the hard way when my “perfect” car needed $2,000 in repairs two weeks later.

Always check under the hood—and bring a mechanic with you if you can.

2. Always Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

If a shop like Honest Mechanix had looked at it, they would've caught the issues.

Suspension problems. Brake wear. A weird transmission sound.

The seller didn’t mention any of it.

$100 for an inspection could’ve saved me thousands.

Lesson: Don’t skip inspection. Ever.

3. Check the CarFax or History Report

A clean CarFax doesn’t mean perfect, but a bad one?

🚩 Flood damage.

🚩 Accidents.

🚩 Salvage title.

Ask for it. Read it. If the seller hesitates? Red flag, walk away.

4. Not All “As-Is” Sales Are Worth the Risk

If they say "no warranty, as-is"—you’re on your own.

That’s okay if you know what you’re getting.

But if you don’t?

You might end up paying for someone else’s mistakes.

5. Mileage Isn’t Everything

Sure, lower mileage can be better.

But maintenance matters more.

I’ve seen 80,000-mile cars with blown head gaskets and 160,000-mile cars running like new.

Always ask for service records.

6. The Real Cost Isn’t Just the Price Tag

Here’s what most people miss:

Used cars might be cheaper up front...

But factor in:

• Repairs

• Insurance

• Registration

• Possible breakdowns

  Suddenly, that "great deal" isn't so great.

Final Tip: Talk to a Local Mechanic Before You Buy

A trusted mechanic (like us at Honest Mechanix) can give you the real story on a used car.

We’ve seen the tricks, the red flags, the hidden problems.

Before you buy, get it looked at.

You’ll thank yourself later.