EDITORIAL GUIDES
Auto buying articles
Practical information for vehicle shoppers and owners.
GUIDE
Used Car Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy
Use this practical used-car inspection checklist to check the exterior, interior, tires, fluids, documents and condition before deciding what to do next.
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Used Car Test Drive Checklist: What to Notice on the Road
Use this used-car test drive checklist to observe comfort, visibility, controls, acceleration, braking, handling and helpful questions before deciding on a vehicle.
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How to Read a Used Car History Report
Learn how to read a used-car history report, including its vehicle details, ownership, title, incident and service entries, and the questions to ask next.
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Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Car
Prepare practical questions to ask before buying a used car, from condition and records to test drives, ownership details and your next steps.
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How Many Miles Is Too Many for a Used Car?
Learn how to evaluate used-car mileage in context by comparing age, maintenance history, condition, driving needs and available vehicle information.
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Used Car Maintenance Records Guide: What to Look For
Learn which used-car maintenance records to review, how to compare service dates and mileage, and what questions to ask before deciding on your next step.
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Choosing a Used SUV for City Driving
Learn how to compare a used SUV for city driving by considering size, visibility, parking, cargo, comfort, fuel use and an in-person evaluation.
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Sedan vs. SUV for Everyday Driving: How to Choose
Compare a used sedan and SUV for everyday driving by looking at passengers, cargo, parking, visibility, comfort, fuel use and an in-person evaluation.
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Budgeting for a Used Car Beyond the Purchase Price
Build a realistic used-car budget by planning for insurance, registration, fuel, maintenance, repairs and other ownership costs beyond the purchase price.
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First Month After Buying a Used Car Checklist
Use this practical first-month checklist to organize documents, establish a maintenance baseline and get comfortable with a used vehicle after purchase.
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