Buying Your First Used Car

Mission: Get reliable transportation without wrecking your paycheck or credit.

BEFORE YOU SHOP

Lock in financing first

Best option: Credit Union

Next best: Bank

Last resort: Dealership

Loan length: 42 months or less (shorter = less interest)

Set your budget

Monthly payment you can afford plus insurance, gas, and maintenance

PICK THE RIGHT CAR

Buy reliability, not looks

Use Consumer Reports (you may be able to access a free copy at your base library)

Check J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study

Narrow to 2–3 proven models

KNOW THE REAL PRICE

Check fair value on:

Edmunds

Kelley Blue Book (KBB)

NADA

Compare:

Year

Mileage

Trim level

Condition

SHOP SMART

Use:

Autotrader

CarGurus

iSeeCars

Private sellers = usually cheaper
Dealers = faster financing, higher cost

Never assume the dealer will “handle the paperwork.”

CALL BEFORE YOU COMMIT

Ask the seller:

Is it still available?

Any known issues?

Clean title or salvage/rebuilt?

Can I see the VIN report?

Can I test drive it?

Ask dealers:

“Is this the out-the-door price with all fees included?”

CHECK THE VIN HISTORY

VIN reports show:

Accidents or damage

Title issues

Ownership history

Free checks:

NICB

iSeeCars

VehicleHistory

TEST DRIVE + INSPECT

Before driving

Leaks, dents, worn tires

Warning lights

Headlights, brake lights, turn signals

During driving

Smooth acceleration & braking

No shaking, clunking, or strange noises

Drive at different speeds

If it feels off walk away.

NEGOTIATE FIRST

Negotiate total price, not monthly payment

Ask about all fees and taxes

Agree on price before inspection

GET A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION

Most used cars are AS-IS

Pay a mechanic you choose ($150–$250)

Any deposit must be refundable in writing if it fails

Skipping this step = expensive regret.

CLOSE THE DEAL

Title

Seller has it

Name matches

All signatures correct

Financing

Compare dealer offer to pre-approval

Switch only if the rate is better, and the terms don’t change

Warranties

Avoid third-party warranties

Only consider manufacturer-backed coverage if needed

FINAL WORD

Slow down. Ask questions. Trust your gut.
A smart car buy protects your money, credit, and freedom.

If it feels rushed or shady walk.

Semper Fi

Paul Davis SgtMaj (USMC Ret)