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The decision to purchase a car or truck is significant for most families. Besides the obvious high cost that can hit a savings account hard, we also depend on a vehicle’s reliability to safely and efficiently transport us to necessary destinations.

Buying a used car is a great way to save money, and purchasing it from a used car dealer means you can often secure limited warranties, trade-in value for your existing vehicle, and financing. However, just because a dealership has a business license doesn’t always mean you’re getting a great deal.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a used car, keep reading for some great tips on how to go about the process from a dealer.

1. Look for Certifications

Today many dealerships offer manufacturer certification programs. Typically, when a used car is returned from a lease or sold within a few years of purchase, the dealership often evaluates its maintenance condition. Normally, if the car is less than five years old, has low enough mileage and has been deemed by a mechanic to be in good condition, it can be certified.

After being brand-certified, many of these used cars are sold with limited factory and even powertrain warranties. For example, Honda conducts a 150-point inspection and offers a 7-year factory and 12,000 mile warranties on non-powertrain components.

Typically, if the actual manufacturer is standing behind a used car, the certification tends to be more valuable. However, if you’re buying a used vehicle that has simply been deemed “certified” by an independent dealership, you’ll need to deal directly with them. When the dealership is offering a warranty, ask to see it and make sure you understand all the terms clearly before you make the purchase.

2. Price Before you Buy

Before you even step on a dealership lot, have an idea of the type of vehicle you want to buy, its current book value, and any accessories you’re counting on it having. Try searching sites or resources like the Kelley Blue Book which will help you determine a vehicle’s value based on its make, model, year, mileage and even geographic location.

By having a broader understanding of the marketplace and cars available in your price range, you’re less likely to wind up paying more.

3. Run a Vehicle History Report

Unless you’re dealing with a trusted or well-referred dealership, always run an independent vehicle history report on the car you’re hoping to purchase. Services like CARFAX let you look at a car’s complete history from major repairs to sales to accidents.

4. Opt for Bank Financing

While many used car dealerships will offer some form of financing, you’re almost always better off using your own bank or lending institution. The rates are lower and you can link it directly to your bank account.

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