What Should Buyers Look for When Buying a Used Car to Avoid Costly Surprises and Get a Reliable Vehicle? Buying a used car starts with clear budgeting and research, followed by a thorough inspection, test drive, and careful review of the vehicle’s history and paperwork. Focusing on condition, maintenance records, accident or flood damage, and a professional inspection before signing anything greatly improves your chances of getting a dependable car at a fair price. For Nevada buyers, additional considerations include heat-related wear, desert dust damage, and verifying out-of-state flood titles don’t slip through the cracks. Key Takeaways Step 1: Budget and Pre-Shopping Research Set Your Total Budget Before shopping, calculate your complete budget beyond just the sticker price: Purchase costs: