Depending on where you buy your used car from can have a large effect on the risks you face in the purchase. If you buy your used car from a used car dealership you can be assured that it has probably received some kind of looking over or performance check. If you decide to visit a used car lot, be sure to read online reviews and ask to see customer references to make sure they are a legitimate car lot and aren't trying to cheat you out of your money. If you go through an independent dealer that you find in a classifieds publication, you might be saving money but you are facing the risk that the car is worthless.

If you're trying to decide whether to buy a used car or a new car it will always be safer to get a new car. They are simply better built and will represent more value for your money. But if you have a restricted budget you might have to consider a used car. Used car can be associated with many risks that can compromise the safety of the vehicle. For instance, if the vehicle has been in a major accident and not repaired correctly, or corners were cut in refurbishing it, that vehicle could be very dangerous to drive. And it is quite easy for salesmen to change the mileage on the vehicle to make it seem less used than it is. If you have a friend with some mechanical knowhow, bring them along, or ask if you can bring the car to a mechanic before you buy it.