Used Cars for Cheap
Cheap used cars come from private sellers, dealers and auctions. Check before paying.
Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.
Where to buy
- Search eBay MotorsLive search · ebay.com
- Google searchLive search · google.com
- NMVTIS vehicle historyOfficial site · vehiclehistory.bja.ojp.gov
Private sellers, small lots and auctions often beat big dealers. Lower price usually means less protection.
Professional insight
Mechanics judge a cheap car by its records and rust, not mileage.
- Cold start the engine and listen for knocks.
- Check underneath for frame rust and fresh fluid leaks.
- Look for mismatched paint between body panels.
- Pull codes with a cheap OBD2 scanner.
Check the label
0 of 7 checked
Buying steps
- 1Set a total budget, including tax, fees and insurance.
- 2Shortlist reliable models in your price range.
- 3Run a vehicle history report with the VIN.
- 4Test drive on hills, highway and stop and go traffic.
- 5Pay an independent mechanic for a pre purchase inspection.
- 6Negotiate using any faults the inspection found.
- 7Sign the title transfer and get a bill of sale.
Red flags
- Seller refuses an independent inspection.
- Title not in the seller's name.
- Damp carpet, silt or a musty smell, a sign of flood damage.
- Requests for wire transfers or gift cards.
- Price far below similar cars nearby.
Ways to save
Used car cost per month
CalculatorRough monthly cost of owning the car for a set time.
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Cost per month
- Shop late in the month when lots push sales.
- Consider plain models that cost less to insure.
- Get financing quotes from a credit union first.
Common questions
- Is a private seller cheaper than a dealer?
- Often, but there is no Buyers Guide and few protections.
- Are salvage title cars a good deal?
- They cost less but can be hard to insure and resell.
- Does a history report replace an inspection?
- No. Reports miss unreported damage. Always inspect.