Buying a used car can be one of the smartest financial decisions you’ll ever make—but only if you do it right. A well-chosen pre-owned vehicle can save you thousands compared to buying new, but many buyers fall into common traps that cost them money, time, and peace of mind.

At Sterling Value Pre-Owned, we’ve been helping customers find the right cars for over 20 years, so we know exactly what pitfalls to watch out for. To make your car-buying journey easier, here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid when buying a used car.

1. Skipping the Vehicle History ReportNever buy a used car without checking its history. Reports like Carfax or AutoCheck can reveal past accidents, title issues, or odometer rollbacks. At Sterling Value Pre-Owned, we provide transparency so you know exactly what you’re getting.

2. Not Setting a Budget in Advance
Walking into a dealership without a budget can lead to overspending. Always know your limit before you shop. Even better—bring cash if possible. At Sterling Value Pre-Owned, cash is king, and customers often get special discounts, great deals, and even free shipping when paying in cash.

3. Forgetting About Ownership CostsThe price tag isn’t the only cost. Factor in insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Choosing a fuel-efficient or reliable brand can save you big in the long run.

4. Ignoring Warranty Options
Many buyers assume used cars come “as is,” but not at Sterling Value Pre-Owned. Every car comes with a 12-month/12,000-mile dealer warranty, giving you peace of mind long after you drive off the lot.

5. Overlooking a Test DriveA car might look great on paper, but the test drive tells the real story. Pay attention to brakes, steering, and comfort. For out-of-state buyers, Sterling Value Pre-Owned offers a 12-day return policy, so you can buy sight unseen and still shop with confidence.

6. Not Comparing Prices
Don’t settle for the first car you see. Research market values to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Sterling Value Pre-Owned consistently offers competitive pricing on a wide variety of vehicles.

7. Forgetting to Check Mileage vs. AgeA newer car with very high mileage could be more worn than an older car with lower mileage. Look at both factors together to judge value.

8. Not Asking About Logistics and Delivery

Out-of-state buyers often forget about the cost and hassle of shipping. At Sterling Value Pre-Owned, we manage our own logistics with a fleet of nine car haulers—ensuring safe, timely delivery, and in many cases, free shipping on cash deals.