How to buy a used car

Our advice and expert advice will help you find a reliable used car at an affordable price.

 and, according to market analysts, they are likely to remain high for some time. The reasons are complex. In short, it was caused by automakers not being able to produce new cars fast enough to keep up with demand.

A small number of new cars for sale have boosted the demand for used cars, causing car prices to rise above normal levels by more than 40% last summer. "With so many financial interests at stake, it's more important than ever to do a thorough research," says Jake Fisher, director of Consumer Reports. Our strategies and model profiles will help you find quality used cars at the best prices in this rare market, no matter what your budget.

Keep these key factors in mind

Safety equipment

In recent years, more and more as an option, if not delivered, then with standard equipment. This means affordable used cars boast features ranging from automatic emergency braking (AEB) to adaptive cruise control. Among these features, Consumer Reports highly recommends AEB with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Alert. “We think it's worth going the extra mile to make sure your next car has these key safety features,” Fisher says.

reliability

Limit your search to the models featured by . But remember, every used car has its own history of wear and sometimes mishandling, so it's always a good idea to have any used car you're considering checked by a trusted mechanic before buying it. "Because cars sell so quickly, it can be difficult to get a salesperson to agree to a mechanical check," says John Ibbotson, chief mechanic at Consumer Reports. "But having any car you consider buying inspected by a trusted mechanic is a good way to make sure it's safe and reliable going forward."

age

Due to the current market, cars that are only a year or two old will not depreciate much and may even cost the same as when they were new. For this reason, you are likely to find better prices if you are looking for vehicles that are 3-5 years old. Many of them have just been rented out and are in good condition. In a market as unusual as today's, you may need to consider an older model than you'd normally be looking for to fit your budget goals. “Try not to fixate on something that will be worth less than the amount you owe on the loan in a few years,” Fisher says. “Paying higher than normal prices now could mean the car will depreciate more quickly over time.”

Evaluate all your options

Web search

Look at sites like . If you want to buy from an individual rather than a company, you can find sales listings on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. You must be ready to act, because in this market, sellers are unlikely to hold cars for long. "Offers can disappear quickly, so you may need to act quickly," Fischer says. "But take your time and don't overlook important details so you don't end up making a purchase you'll regret."

Buy rent

Almost all leases include a release clause, so consider buying the car you're leasing when the term has expired. If your car's purchase price was set before the pandemic, it will likely be much lower than what the car is currently worth on the open market. “Buying a car that you leased might be the best option in today's market,” Fisher says. "You'll be able to keep the level of features and comfort you're used to, and you may have to forgo that if you buy another car at today's high prices."

Choose a less popular model

As always in recent years, SUVs and trucks are very popular, which means that there will be fewer owners who want to get rid of these cars. Chances are you'll find better availability and maybe even a sale on less popular models like sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and front-wheel drive SUVs.

Be smart about funding

Compare suggestions

Set a budget, discuss monthly and overhead costs, and get a pre-approved quote from your bank or credit union before heading to the dealership. If the dealer cannot outbid you, you can be sure that you have received a loan at a good interest rate. “Going to the dealership with your list will give you a huge advantage in negotiations,” Fisher says.

Beware of Extended Warranties

A: On average, it's cheaper to pay for out-of-pocket repairs than it is to buy a data plan you may never use. If you can't buy a used car that's still covered by the factory warranty, your best bet is to buy a model with good reliability records, or perhaps a certified used car that's usually covered by some kind of warranty. . If you decide you want to buy warranty coverage for, say, a must-have model with a questionable reliability history, make sure you know what the plan covers and what it doesn't. “Most people want to save up for unexpected repairs because extended warranty contracts contain complex legal language that can be difficult to understand,” says Chuck Bell, Program Director of Consumer Reports Advocacy. “Also, dealers can increase warranty coverage at different prices for different people.”

Don't rent a used car

Renting a used car comes with significant financial risks, including the potentially high cost of repairing a car that doesn't even belong to you. If you're renting a used car, try to get one that's still covered by the factory warranty, or consider getting an extended warranty if there aren't many exceptions. It is also possible to get someone else's lease through a company like Swapalease. In this case, the car is probably still under warranty and has a better service history.

You must know what you are buying

Check vehicle history

Reports from Carfax or another reputable agency may reveal a vehicle's accident history and service intervals.

walk around the car

Visually inspect the vehicle on a dry, sunny day to get a better look at defects and potential problems. Check the bottom for rust, fluid leaks, and signs of accidental repairs. Turn each button and press each switch to make sure everything is working properly. If you smell moldy, the car may have been flooded or there is a leak somewhere, which could mean invisible water damage.

Take a test drive

Even before that, make sure the car is the right size for your needs, that the seats are comfortable, and that the controls don't drive you crazy. While driving, pay attention to visible smoke emissions, feel abnormal vibration, and smell flammable liquids. After driving, check the underside of the vehicle for oil leaks, bearing in mind that there will be a puddle of clean water under the vehicle when the A/C is on.

Carry out a mechanical inspection

This tip is so important that we think it's worth repeating: if you can, ask your mechanic or, in a pinch, a friend who understands auto repair to inspect the car. If the car is not covered by a warranty or service contract, any problems with it will be yours as soon as you get home with it. (Learn more about).

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Used cars you can trust

This one (with a focus on SUVs due to its popularity) is likely to appeal to buyers based on ratings and reviews from Consumer Reports. Smart Choice models are consumer favorites; Under the Radar models aren't as popular, but they have good reliability records and generally performed well in road tests when Consumer Reports tested them as new.

Used Cars $40,000 and Up

1- Price range: 43,275 49,900 – US dollars.

2- Price range: 44,125 56,925 – US dollars.

Used cars from 30,000 40,000 to dollars.

1- – Price range: 33,350 44,625– US dollars.

2- – Price range: 31,350 42,650– US dollars.

Used cars from 20,000 30,000 to dollars.

1- – Price range: 24,275 32,575– US dollars.

2- – Price range: 22,800 34,225– US dollars.

Used cars from 10,000 20,000 to dollars.

1- – Price range: 16,675 22,425– US dollars.

2- – Price range: 17,350 22,075– US dollars.

Used Cars Under $10,000

All these cars are at least ten years old. But if you're on a budget, they cost less than $10,000 and hold up well, based on our reliability data. However, we recommend checking the vehicle's history report and undergoing a vehicle inspection before purchasing. (Learn more about).

Prices shown are subject to change due to market fluctuations. Baskets are organized by price.

Price range for 2009-2011: $7,000-$10,325.

Although they have few amenities, Accords of that era are reliable, fuel efficient and drive well.

Price range for 2008-2010: $7,075-$10,200.

Favorite for all time. This previous generation CR-V still offers good reliability and fuel economy, as well as a roomy interior and plenty of cargo space.

Price range for 2010-2012: $7,150-$9,350.

Good reliability, an overall fuel economy of 30 mpg, and an amazing amount of interior and cargo space make this small truck a smart buy.

Price range for 2010-2012: $7,400-$10,625.

Roomy interior, hatchback versatility and an overall fuel economy of 44 mpg are good reasons why most people consider this car a good buy.

Price range for 2010-2012: $7,725-$10,000.

This small sedan has long been highly regarded, offering an overall fuel economy of 32 mpg, a spacious and quiet cabin, and supreme reliability.

Price range for 2009-2011: $7,800-$10,025.

While handling isn't particularly exciting, above average reliability, fuel economy and a roomy interior make the Camry a good choice.

Price range for 2011-2012: $9,050-$10,800.

G sedans are fun to drive, with nimble handling, very good reliability and decent fuel efficiency, even though they run on premium fuel. But the interior of the car and the trunk are not very spacious.

Editor's Note: This article was also part of the November 2021 issue of Consumer Reports.

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