How To Avoid Buying a “Lemon”

Check the car’s doorjambs and the underside of the hood; if you see mismatched paint, the car’s probably been repainted — and that’s a sign it’s sustained major body damage.

Check the ground for any oil or water spills that could signal pricey mechanical problems.

Stand behind the car and see if its front and rear tires line up correctly, and if the body is angled properly. If not, the frame is bent, likely due to an accident.

Rust is a sign of trouble to come. Once it starts, it’s pretty much unstoppable and will devour the car from the inside out. Check under the mats or carpet in the back seat and trunk; the rear is most susceptible rust.

Average mileage is 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, so do the math. If the mileage seems incredibly low, the odometer may have been tampered with.

You don’t need to be a mechanic to spot red flags — look for cracks or tears in hoses and belts, and check for any leaks or drips. You shouldn’t see any fluid under the hood at all.

Take the car for a test drive. When you accelerate, check for smoke and odd noises, like clinking or clanging. Stop and start a few times to test the brakes.

Ask the seller if you can get the car checked by a mechanic. If the seller hesitates, walk away!

Before you write that check, use the car’s vehicle identification number (or VIN) to get a detailed vehicle history — including accidents, flood damage, and indications of odometer tampering — from one of the many online sites that provide this service for a low cost.