Edmunds: Avoid these five mistakes when buying a used vehicle
It can be a smart money-saving move to buy a used vehicle instead of a new one. The average price gap between new and used vehicles is more than $20,000, according to recent Edmunds' sales data. But many used-vehicle shoppers make costly mistakes that can be avoided with a little research and preparation. Here are five common mistakes identified by Edmunds' experts and what you can do to avoid them.
Not taking a thorough test drive
Many shoppers will drive the vehicle but not pay close enough attention to how the vehicle drives. An in-depth test drive can help you determine if there's anything mechanically wrong with the vehicle. Is there any hesitation from the engine? Are there any clunks as you drive over bumps? These are all things that, if noticed, can help you avoid a used car with a dubious past.
Most newer used vehicles are also equipped with technology features. Check these out as well. Make sure the touchscreen works properly and that you can pair your phone to the vehicle using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration if it's equipped. Also determine what kind of driver aids the vehicle has and observe if they work properly. Features such as blind-spot warning and traffic-adaptive cruise control rely on sensors that can be costly to fix if they're not working properly.
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.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
8 hours ago
- Miami Herald
This McLaren P1 on Bring a Trailer Can Bring Your Supercar Dreams to Life at 200 MPH
The McLaren P1, the Ferrari LaFerrari, and the Porsche 918 Spyder are considered by enthusiasts to be the Holy Trinity of cars. They were incredible, record-topping machines upon their release, and they continue to make waves to this day. If you have seven digits' worth of disposable income and the P1 is your favorite holy car out of the three, Bring a Trailer has what you desire. This particular 2014 McLaren P1 is #47 of 375 examples ever made and was delivered new to McLaren Newport Beach in Costa Mesa, California. It was later registered in Montana, Pennsylvania, and Indiana before being sold on BaT in February 2022 with 1,800 miles. It was acquired by the selling dealer in Canada in 2025 and now has 1,900 miles, an unfortunate reminder that cars like these, that are meant to be driven, aren't often that lucky. The MonoCage carbon-fiber monocoque is finished in a stunning Azure Blue over a gray leather interior with carbon-fiber racing seats, dual-zone climate control, navigation, and a Meridian sound system. Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 paired with a McLaren E-Motor mounted on the rear axle, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and an open differential for a total of 903 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. The P1 can reach an electrically limited top speed of 217 miles per hour, with emphasis on the "electrically limited" part. Such power requires equally competent braking and steering components, which is why McLaren blessed the P1 with carbon-ceramic brakes and electro-hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering. All of that combined equals a featherweight 3,075 lb. Of course, we can't forget about the McLaren P1's party tricks, those being its extendable rear wing and dihedral doors. Getting into an exotic car is always a bigger event when the doors open in a snazzy manner. Despite its low miles, this P1 already had its headlights, computer system motherboard, output shaft seals, electric hybrid water pump, and a driveline damper replaced in July 2021. The suspension accumulators were recharged, and fresh brake fluid was added at the same time as the other maintenance. The Carfax report lists no accidents or other damage. As an enthusiast who strongly believes in driving your cars, no matter their value or rarity, it makes me a little sad to see people treat such cars as investments. They're not wrong by any stretch, and they will likely profit from the sale, but I never like seeing cars sit. With seven days left in the auction, this McLaren P1 is already at $1,400,000. The last time it sold on 2/3/2022, it reached $1,710,000, so it's likely that it will beat that figure this time around. Here's to hoping that the next owner racks up some miles. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Miami Herald
13 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Shopping for a 2025 Kia K4? Here's What Experts Say You Should Look at Instead
Replacing the Forte in Kia showrooms, the K4 sedan debuts with far more style and design elan than the Forte, as high style was never its, um, forte. The new K4 eclipses its predecessor with a very roomy 99 cubic-foot cabin and a healthy 15 cubic feet of cargo space. Having taken a page from Mazda, the K4 can be trimmed to feel more opulent than its market slot. Our recent test car featured faux leather trim and heated and ventilated seats, extravagances that are totally unexpected in this class. Dual 12.3-inch screens, one for instrumentation, one for infotainment, along with a five-inch display fill the large horizontal glass that rests atop the instrument panel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Most models come with a 147 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission feeding the front wheels. GT-Line Turbo models get a 190 hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a multi-link rear suspension. The EPA rates the 2025 Kia K4 at 33 or 34 mpg, depending on trim, with turbo models rated at 29 mpg. The Kia K4 may boast interesting design, a long list of features, and a roomy cabin, but it belies its driving characteristics, which are totally lackluster. If driving character doesn't matter, you'll find this to be a top candidate, but for those for whom such things matter, you may want to consider one of its rivals. With its timeless good looks, notable fuel economy, and engaging driving experience, the Civic is available as a sedan or hatchback, powered by a 150-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission, which returns 31-32 mpg, depending on the trim. While both the sedan and hatchback offer 99 cubic feet of passenger space, the sedan offers 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback provides a generous 24.5 cubic feet of luggage space. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The base Civic feels sprightly around town, although it's fairly slow off the line, a feeling not helped by its transmission. Its athleticism and good steering feel remain intact, making it a satisfying vehicle to drive. If you have the budget, opt for the Civic Hybrid, which generates 200 horsepower, an EPA-rated 49 mpg, and more muscle. More than its rivals, the Mazda3 conveys a sense of extravagance for a mainstream economy car. Available as a sedan or hatchback, this is among the smaller vehicles offered here, with a mere 93 cubic feet of passenger volume and a 13 cubic-foot trunk on the sedan. The hatchback is better in this regard, with 20 cubic feet of cargo space. A 9-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is standard, although it's annoyingly controlled by a console-mounted rotary knob. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 191 horsepower mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. A turbocharged 250-horsepower version of the same engine is available, but it comes solely with the automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional, but it extracts a 2-3 mpg penalty in fuel economy, which runs 29-31 mpg depending on the model. The Mazda Mazda3 proves to be every bit the athlete that the Honda is, delivering a beautiful balance of handling and ride quality despite lacking an independent rear suspension. But its cabin feels more upscale than others here. It's hard to argue with the Nissan Sentra's prime attribute: value. Like some others here, the powertrain is nothing to write home about. It's a comfortable, compact sedan, offering up 96 cubic feet of passenger space and 14 cubic feet of trunk space. While its 149-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable automatic transmission with front-wheel drive don't provide much in the way of driving fun, it does return an EPA-rated 34 mpg. Its cabin is fitted with 7- or 8-inch infotainment displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upper trim levels offering upscale touches such as a sunroof and dual-zone climate control. It can feel indulgent when nicely equipped, though, which helps make up for the lackluster driving experience. Now that every Toyota has a hybrid model, company designers created a sporty, aerodynamic Prius that provides a driving experience to match its great new looks. It still returns an EPA-rated 52 mpg while furnishing 194 horsepower from its 2.0-liter engine and electric motors. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available, with a two-horsepower bump in power. There's 91.2 cubic feet of passenger space, and a generous 20.3 cubic feet of luggage space, along with six USB-C ports, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five devices. A 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen and navigation are optional. The Prius is no longer engineered solely for high mileage, and acceleration proves better than you might expect. Steering is nicely weighted and satisfyingly quick, returning some road feel. Push the Prius and it feels planted, with minimal body lean in corners. It's actually fun to drive, something you could never say before. Inexpensive four-wheel drive can be hard to come by, but not at Subaru, where the Impreza offers what few automakers do. This practical little hatchback provides 99 cubic feet of passenger space and 20 cubic feet of cargo room, making it one of the roomier offerings here. Base models get a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, while others get a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as an auxiliary input jack, a USB-C port, and a USB-A port. Under the hood, you'll find a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Pricier models get a 182-horsepower 2.5-liter flat four with the same gearbox. The EPA rates the Impreza at 30 mpg with the former and 29 mpg with the latter. The base model is definitely the one to choose, as the larger engine doesn't make a huge difference in performance, and the Impreza's calling is its cheap, practical nature. While it's one of the older models here, the Volkswagen Jetta is worth considering. It offers 94 cubic feet of passenger space and 14 cubic feet of cargo room, with a cabin that is fitted with niceties you'll appreciate, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, wireless charger, and heated mirrors. An 8-inch digital gauge cluster is standard, although top models get a 10.3-inch unit. An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Power comes from a 158-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not as sharp a handler as the Mazda or Honda, the Volkswagen Jetta proves to be generally pleasing to drive, with decent power and a somewhat more Teutonic sensibility. Even though we find the 2025 Kia K4's feature list worthwhile, its main tradeoff is a remarkably unremarkable driving experience. While that's true of compact economy cars in general, both the Honda Civic and Mazda3 remain exceptions, and both offer a choice of hatchback or notchback body styles. If your budget allows you to spend a little more, go for a Civic Hybrid or the surprisingly fun Toyota Prius. If frequent inclement weather is a concern, the Subaru Impreza and Mazda3 are good solutions. The Nissan Sentra offers a good value and better driving experience than the Kia, while the Volkswagen Jetta is just a solid, all-around good value. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Yahoo
2025 Ford F-150 Lobo gets racy ‘street truck' makeover
America's best-selling pickup gets a racy "street truck" makeover in the 2025 Ford F-150 Lobo, a lowered and menacing looking newcomer that goes on sale now for delivery in fall 2025. The 2025 F-150 is the second truck to get Ford's new Lobo badge, following the aggressive little 2025 Maverick Lobo that's in dealerships now. Don't be surprised to see Ford apply the lowered and menacing Lobo approach to other trucks and SUVs in its lineup. Standard four-wheel drive Standard 5.0L V8 400-horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque 10-speed automatic transmission Standard crew cab 5.5-foot bed 22-inch Lobo gloss black wheels Apple CarPlay Android Auto Tow hitch 7,900-pound towing capacity 1,450-pound payload Price: $57,800, plus $2,195 destination charge More: 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo reinvents the compact sport truck — at a price Ford lowered the F-150 Lobo's rear ride height 2 inches to create what designer Josh Blundo calls a sinister profile. It comes in five exterior colors, two unique to the Lobo. Other unique Lobo touches include: Black hood and fender vents "Lobo" badge on fender vents Gloss black exterior trim Unique grille and headlights Gloss black lower mesh grille open for ventilation LED light bar connecting headlights across grille Black satin twin exhaust outlets Black oval Ford badge on tailgate The Lobo package is a $4,695 addition to added to the F-150's popular STX trim. It stickers at $57,800 plus $2,195 destination charge. Ford builds the R-150 Lobo at its Rouge plant in Dearborn Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 2025 Ford F-150 gets sinister 'Lobo' street truck treatment
