When Buying A Used Car What To Look For May 2026

Always inspect the car in and when it is dry ; rain and artificial lighting can hide scratches, dents, and paint imperfections. Buying a used car - Citizens Advice

: Check for unresolved safety recalls via the NHTSA website . 2. Exterior & Engine Inspection when buying a used car what to look for

Before visiting a car in person, use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to unlock its history. This is your first line of defense against hidden issues. Always inspect the car in and when it

: Use services like CARFAX or Kelley Blue Book to check for reported accidents, liens, theft history, or "salvage" titles. Exterior & Engine Inspection Before visiting a car

: Ensure the seller's name matches the title and that the title is free of liens. Be suspicious of recently transferred titles from coastal states, which may indicate "title washing" after flood damage.