In addition to 10 questions to ask when buying a used car, there are other factors to consider when taking the plunge and whether you’re buying from a private party or a dealership, it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting for your money.

Below are 7 good tips to keep in mind when buying a used car:

Tire Mileage
Ask how many miles are on the tires. Just because the odometer says the car has a certain number of miles doesn’t mean the same can be said for the tires.  Check for tire wear and make sure the tread is in good shape.

Number of Previous Owners
Knowing how many people have owned the vehicle is important because it gives you a good idea just how much wear and tear you can expect.  Also, vehicles with many prior owners may signal problems that have caused this particular vehicle to be bought sold many times.

Know Your History
Does the owner have the service history?  If an owner has kept meticulous service records, you’re almost guaranteed the vehicle is in tip top shape.  If not, get a report from Carfax and check things out yourself.  A single Carfax report will set you back $24.99, but you can get 10 for $29.99 or unlimited for 30 days for $34.99 definitely worth it when you’re shopping for a solid, used vehicle.  A Carfax report should disclose the following information:

• Flood Damage
• Odometer Rollbacks
• Junked Titles
• Totaled/Salvaged
• State Emissions Inspection Results
• Lemon History/Service and Repair
• Liens

Recalls
Check for recall information.  Carfax also offers open recall information for a number of automobile manufacturers, however for older recalls or other manufacturers not listed, you can find the information you need by doing a little online research; just visit any number of recall sites and plug in the car information.  If the vehicle has been recalled, it is important to make certain the recall has been repaired.  You can do this by speaking to the service technician at the dealership, who can obtain the records for the vehicle.  You can also phone the manufacturer and ask, but you’ll need the VIN to do so.

Accidents
Has the car ever been in an accident?  Is there any frame damage?  Look along the body lines and check for gaps along the fenders, hood, trunk and doors. Also look along the sides and front of the car, noting any ripples or paint differences. Body lines should be straight, paint should match up exactly.  If you’re in doubt or something looks a little off, you’re probably right.

Service
Ask when the next scheduled service is due on the vehicle.  Things like oil changes, checking fluids and other vehicle maintenance is important to keep your vehicle running as good as possible.  A private seller who keeps good records should be able to tell you when the next scheduled service is due, while a dealership has probably recently serviced the vehicle before putting it on the lot. 

Research Your Questions
Speak to a service technician and do research on line to determine the reliability and consumer opinion about the specific make and model year of any vehicle you may be interested in purchasing.  Edmund’s has a great consumer review section where owners both past and present – rate vehicles and give honest opinions regarding the vehicles they own, any problems they’ve had, any recalls they’ve been informed of and the overall experience of being the owner of a wide variety of makes and models.

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