If I'm buying a used car off the street

What are all the details I should ask the owner?

-Title,
-Miles per gallon,
-Other miscellaneous details/issues
-what am I missing?

If I go through with buying, it'll be my first car.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

samwithoutapath · 31-35, M

Not saying it'll be a lemon, but 9 times out of 10, yeah. It will be. Ask about mileage, examine for rust, check the tires, peek inside the windows. If the price matches the age (older car, low price), it's what you expect. Newer cars at low prices are a no-go.

I saw a 2020 Lexus SUV for sale the other day. $3000. That wasn't a red flag, that was crimson.

caPnAhab · 26-30, M

@samwithoutapath hmm okay.

The car I'm looking at is a 2002 Toyota Celica for $1150.

It looks pretty good on the outside but I haven't given it a thurough inspection yet

samwithoutapath · 31-35, M

@caPnAhab Bring someone that knows cars, like a friend or family member, to give it a look. Listen, it's old and cheap, you can't expect it to be great, but it will probably run. Maybe.

caPnAhab · 26-30, M

@samwithoutapath right, I definitely wouldn't expect it to be perfect.

Thanks for the advice

morrgin · F

@samwithoutapath there are actually businesses out there that inspect a vehicle for you before you buy it