When your car has reached the end of its lifespan, it's time to buy a replacement. If you are unable or unwilling to pay top dollar for a new vehicle, the best solution is often to buy a used car. However, there are some tips you should keep in mind as you shop. Review the guide below before buying a used vehicle.

Do:

Research vehicles.

Take plenty of time to research different makes and models to find a few you like. Understand what trim styles come with certain amenities, and look at Kelley Blue Book® values to get an idea of price ranges. Research buyer satisfaction ratings for the models and years that interest you, and check out the reliability ratings on Consumer Reports® to see which used cars have had the most—and fewest—mechanical problems.

Schedule a used car inspection.

If you find a car you like, ask the owner or dealership if you can have a mechanic inspect it before you buy. The technicians give the whole car a once-over, as well as a test drive, to determine how well it's been maintained and if there are any serious problems. If your mechanic finds an issue, you can use that to negotiate a better price. This ensures you can buy with confidence.

Don't:

Pass up a test drive.

Go on a test drive to see how the car handles. Be sure to notice how it drives on the highway as well as neighborhood streets. Look out for sluggish brakes, difficult or rough shifting, and a tendency to veer to one side. These are all signs the car needs work. You should feel comfortable behind the wheel, and the dashboard and control panel should be easy to navigate. 

Forget to ask questions. 

Be sure to ask plenty of questions before purchasing a used car. No inquiry is too minuscule, whether you notice there is a dent in the door or you don't know what the dashboard light means. Also, ask about general routine maintenance so you know what to expect once you bring the car home. This ensures you leave the lot with a purchase you are confident about and know how to maintain. 

For a wide selection of high-quality used cars, stop by FacilDeal Auto Center, a trusted pre-owned car dealership in Haines City, FL. They offer fair deals on exceptional products, and their team is helpful without using high-pressure tactics. They also specialize in foreign and exotic cars, as well as used trucks. Visit their website to check out their used car inventory or call (863) 588-2159 to ask about model availability or business hours.