BBC Gossip
  • Home
  • Health
  • News
  • Crime
  • Local News
  • People
  • Guest Post
BBC Gossip
BBC Gossip
  • Home
  • News
  • Health
  • People
  • Celebrities
  • Crime
  • Entertainment
  • Finance
  • Guest Post
Home Edmunds: Five Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Used Vehicle
  • Local News

Edmunds: Five Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Used Vehicle

    Edmunds: Avoid these five mistakes when buying a used vehicle
    Up next
    Towering 800ft half-built skyscraper looming over city as Europe’s tallest abandoned building could FINALLY be finished
    “Europe’s tallest abandoned building, an 800ft half-built skyscraper, may be completed after years of neglect”
    Published on 19 March 2025
    Author
    BBC Gossip

    Buying a used vehicle instead of a new one can save you a significant amount of money, with an average price gap of over $20,000 between the two, based on recent sales data from Edmunds. However, many potential pitfalls can be avoided with some careful research and preparation. Edmunds experts have identified five common mistakes made by used-vehicle shoppers and offer advice on how to steer clear of them.

    Not taking a thorough test drive

    One common mistake is not paying enough attention to how the vehicle performs during a test drive. A thorough test drive can reveal any potential mechanical issues. Listen for engine hesitation and watch out for any strange noises when going over bumps. These warning signs can help you avoid purchasing a used car with hidden problems.

    Many modern used vehicles come equipped with various technology features. It’s essential to test these features during your inspection. Ensure that the touchscreen functions properly and that you can easily connect your phone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the driver assistance features and confirm that they are in working order. Systems like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control rely on sensors that can be expensive to repair if faulty.

    Not spending money to get a history report or inspection

    Never assume the seller knows the vehicle’s history or is being entirely truthful. A used car might look good on the surface and drive well, but it could be hiding a history of accidents, flood damage or odometer fraud. One way to get independent information is to purchase a report from services such as Carfax or AutoCheck.

    A vehicle history report can also reveal prior accidents, title issues, rental or fleet vehicle use, and any major recalls or repairs. A car might have been written off as a total loss but later rebuilt and resold — something a history report can flag. You might have to purchase a history report on your own, but many reputable dealerships will provide one for free.

    Additionally, have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic for an extra layer of security. Even if the vehicle history report appears clean, underlying mechanical problems may exist. Take that seriously and be prepared to part with $150 to $400 for a prepurchase inspection. This small investment can save you from buying a vehicle with hidden damage or mechanical gremlins.

    Focusing only on the monthly payment

    One of the biggest mistakes car buyers make is only considering the monthly payment rather than the total cost of the vehicle. Dealers often frame a deal around what you can afford per month, stretching out loan terms to lower the payment while increasing the total amount you’ll pay in interest.

    Instead, focus on the vehicle’s total price, interest rate and loan term. A lower monthly payment might seem appealing, but if it means paying thousands more over time, it’s not a good deal. Be sure to run the numbers and compare loan options before committing.

    Not shopping around for a loan

    Many buyers — especially those who are rushed — assume that dealer financing is their best or only option, but that’s often not the case. Dealers may mark up interest rates for profit, leaving you paying more than necessary.

    Before visiting the dealership, check loan rates at your bank or credit union. Preapproval from an external lender not only gives you negotiating power but also ensures you’re getting the best possible rate. Dealer financing might still be the best deal, but you’ll only know for sure if you’ve compared multiple options.

    Making an emotional purchase instead of a logical one

    Many used-car shoppers let their emotions influence a car purchase. It’s understandable. Maybe they’ve always wanted a certain type of car or maybe they feel rushed and anxious because their current vehicle was totaled in an accident and they need an immediate replacement. But buying the wrong vehicle for the wrong reasons can result in buyer’s remorse.

    Take the time to research different makes and models, compare features, analyze annual fuel costs and locate the lowest prices. It’s also wise to use websites such as Edmunds to read consumer reviews and look up reliability ratings. Bringing a trusted friend or family member to provide an objective perspective on the vehicle you want to buy is also a great way to avoid feeling trapped.

    Edmunds Says

    Buying a used car will be much less stressful if you avoid these common mistakes. By verifying the car’s drivability and history, getting the right loan and terms, and considering the total cost, you can make a confident and informed decision.

    ____

    This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds. Josh Jacquot is a contributor at Edmunds.

    Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

    You May Also Like
    Fentanyl dealer busted near Colorado State Capitol sentenced to federal prison
    • Local News

    Federal Prison Sentence for Fentanyl Dealer Arrested in Close Proximity to Colorado State Capitol

    DENVER — The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    Takeaways from AP’s report on how federal public health cuts are affecting communities across the US
    • Local News

    Lessons Learned from AP’s Study on the Impact of Federal Public Health Budget Cuts on US Communities

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A wide range of individuals and programs focused on…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    Netflix reveals details about Lady Gaga on 'Wednesday,' 'Squid Game' and 'Stranger Things' finales
    • Local News

    Netflix shares information about the conclusions of “Wednesday” with Lady Gaga, as well as the finales of “Squid Game” and “Stranger Things.”

    Netflix hosted an event in Inglewood, Calif., where it shared exciting news…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Akron police release bodycam video from incident where suspect fired at officers
    • Local News

    Police in Akron share bodycam footage from incident involving suspect shooting at officers

    Police say one officer suffered a ‘minor leg injury.’ A 27-year-old woman…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    Elyria police investigate Sunday morning shooting
    • Local News

    1 Person Charged in Elyria After Fight Escalates to Shooting

    Levi Webb, a 26-year-old individual, was taken into custody following claims of…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    A bridge collapse causes a train to derail in Russia, killing at least 7 people, officials say
    • Local News

    Train accident in Russia kills 7 after bridge collapse

    Moscow Railways reported that the bridge in Russia’s Bryansk region, near the…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Paris probes antisemitic vandalism targeting synagogues and a Holocaust memorial
    • Local News

    Paris investigating anti-Semitic vandalism against synagogues and Holocaust memorial

    PARIS – Authorities in Paris have launched an investigation after several Jewish…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    ‘He did nothing wrong:’ Family demands answers after Orange County deputies shoot, kill man
    • Local News

    “Family Seeks Answers: Orange County Deputies Shoot and Kill Man Despite No Wrongdoing”

    In Orange County, Florida, the family of a man who was shot…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Afro Mexican actors fighting racism celebrate their heritage through their plays
    • Local News

    Celebrating Heritage: Afro Mexican Actors Combatting Racism through Theatre

    TICUMÁN – TICUMÁN, MéThere was something about her body, but Mexican actress…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025
    2 fans died and an officer is in a coma after Champions League celebrations in France
    • Local News

    Tragic Outcome at Champions League Celebration in France: 2 Fans Dead, Officer in Coma

    PARIS – According to French authorities, tragic incidents marred the celebrations following…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Adam Sandler steps back on the golf green in latest 'Happy Gilmore 2' trailer
    • Local News

    Adam Sandler returns to the golf course in the new preview for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’

    The sports comedy sequel will also feature many familiar faces from the…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Put-In-Bay's Paul Jeris set to blast off into space with Blue Origin
    • Local News

    Paul Jeris from Put-In-Bay is getting ready to launch into space with Blue Origin

    Island local Paul Jeris will journey to space with Blue Origin’s New…
    • BBC Gossip
    • May 31, 2025

    Recent Posts

    • Tragic Outcome at Champions League Celebration in France: 2 Fans Dead, Officer in Coma
    • Baby wrapped in soiled laundry found at dry cleaners, prompting police investigation into unsettling situation
    • Trump’s renewed regional diplomacy boosts prospects for Israel-Syria peace
    • “Prince Harry Consults Princess Diana’s Brother About Changing Family Name to Spencer”
    • “Karen Read Sells Home and Dips into Retirement Fund to Cover Increasing Legal Costs for Murder Retrial”
    2 fans died and an officer is in a coma after Champions League celebrations in France
    • Local News

    Tragic Outcome at Champions League Celebration in France: 2 Fans Dead, Officer in Coma

    PARIS – According to French authorities, tragic incidents marred the celebrations…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    ‘Mummified’ baby found at dry cleaners wrapped in dirty laundry from funeral home as cops probe ‘disturbing’ mystery 
    • News

    Baby wrapped in soiled laundry found at dry cleaners, prompting police investigation into unsettling situation

    A MUMMIFIED baby wrapped in dirty laundry was found by a horrified…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Momentum builds for Israel-Syria peace as Trump reboots regional diplomacy
    • US

    Trump’s renewed regional diplomacy boosts prospects for Israel-Syria peace

    Syrians are now openly expressing their desire for peace with Israel, which…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    Prince Harry sought advice from Princess Diana's brother asking if he should change family name to Spencer
    • US

    “Prince Harry Consults Princess Diana’s Brother About Changing Family Name to Spencer”

    Prince Harry sought advice from Princess Diana’s brother about changing his…
    • BBC Gossip
    • June 1, 2025
    BBC Gossip
    • Home
    • Privacy Policy
    • News
    • Local News
    • Health
    • Crime
    • Guest Post