We’ve been talking about how to make sure you don't get taken for a ride when buying a used vehicle, and our next tip is very important. Take the car in to a mechanic before you buy it. Make sure you get a mechanic who knows what he's talking about to do a full check up on the car, including putting it up on a lift and taking a look underneath the car. A mechanic will be able to spot problems with the car that you didn't see. They'll be able to tell you if you're getting a good deal on the car or if you're being scammed. If you have a regular mechanic that you trust, they'll probably take a look at the car for you for no charge, knowing that you'll bring it in to them any time you do need to get it fixed. If the seller is reluctant to let you take the car into a mechanic, you can leave something as collateral that you will come back for, or even bring them along for the ride. And if they still resist letting you get it checked out, then there is probably something wrong with the car that they're not telling you... which is a sign to move on and find another used vehicle.