The first and most important step in picking a used car is determining its condition. But how can you tell a good car from a bad one? Unfortunately, you can't simply judge based on the appearance. A car with gorgeous, shiny paint might just be hiding the fact that it's never had an oil change. And, on the flip side, you might find a car with some body damage that's actually been maintained impeccably, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. Read More »

One important rule of thumb, especially for people who aren't mechanically inclined, is to have a professional give the car a thorough inspection before you buy it. Read More »

One of the fastest growing parts of the used-car market is the "certified pre-owned" car. These heavily advertised programs are typically offered by a new-car dealer when selling their own used models. A BMW dealership, for example, may offer a selection of "certified" used BMWs that have been thoroughly inspected for defects. Are these top-notch cars worth the premium dealers charge for them, though? It depends. Read More »

One of the biggest expenses related to your used car isn't something that comes directly out of your wallet. It only shows up when you sell your car. It's called depreciation, and if you're not paying attention to it before deciding which vehicle to buy, you're making a big mistake. Read More »

Few people have enough money to pay cash for a high-quality used car. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for coming up with the money to buy a safe, long-lasting vehicle. From the bank to the dealership to your own checkbook, here are some ways you can finance your dream car. Read More »