The average price of a used car in the United States sits between $25,000 and $26,000. While this can be cheaper than buying something brand new, you should be careful before moving forward with your purchase. There are some blaring red flags that signal a lemon or, at the very least, a vehicle that isn’t as dependable as the seller says. Keep an eye out for these five things when you’re shopping around.
1. The Price Seems Too Good To Be True
One huge red flag when it comes to buying a used car is a price that seems too good to be true. Any deal that feels unreal should be approached with caution. If you have checked the market value of the vehicle you’re looking at and notice one that is priced low, it could have hidden issues. It could even potentially be a salvage title or have major problems. Sellers know that a low price will draw people in. So, make sure you check Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds so that you can pinpoint when a low price seems too good to be true.
2. The Seller Refuses a Third-Party Inspection
No matter how nice the seller seems, always ask to get the vehicle checked by a trusted mechanic. If they hesitate, rush you, or flat-out say no, that’s a serious red flag. Third-party inspections can reveal frame damage, engine issues, or flood damage you might not notice during a test drive. Spending $100–$200 now could save you thousands later. When buying a used car, don’t skip this step—your future self will thank you.
3. There’s No Vehicle History Report Available
A missing vehicle history report is a major concern. Reports from services like Carfax or AutoCheck show you accidents, title issues, ownership records, and even odometer readings. If the seller can’t or won’t provide one, it may mean they’re hiding something. You can purchase the report yourself if needed, but transparency from the seller is a good sign. When buying a used car, the history matters just as much as the present condition.
4. Signs of Poor Maintenance or Mismatched Parts
Open the hood, look under the car, and check the tires—what do you see? Dirty engine bays, uneven tire wear, or parts that don’t match the brand or year can indicate sloppy maintenance or previous repairs. Pay attention to strange smells, leaks, or warning lights on the dashboard too. Service records are gold—if they’re missing or incomplete, that’s another reason to pause. Buying a used car means you’re inheriting someone else’s habits, so look for signs they cared.
5. The Seller Is Pushy or Vague
High-pressure tactics and vague answers are big red flags. If the seller won’t give you straight answers or insists “it’s a great deal, just take it now,” step back. Good sellers are confident, calm, and happy to answer questions clearly. Ask about why they’re selling the car and how long they’ve had it—shady responses often reveal deeper issues. When buying a used car, trust your gut—if the vibe feels off, don’t be afraid to say no.
A Little Patience Can Save You a Lot of Regret
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to do your research before making a purchase. Rushing into buying a used car can backfire on you fast. Keep these five red flags in mind and ask questions about the vehicle before you buy. Doing so will allow you to make the right decision regarding your used car purchase. No matter who you are buying the car from, it’s always better to walk away than drive away in a lemon.
Have you ever had a bad experience buying a used car? Share your story in the comments—your advice might save someone else from making the same mistake!
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.
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