It has long been the case that many looking for the best cars to buy want used options. This is true for several reasons, with price being the most prominent. However, people should also know that there are some red flags to look out for when buying from car showrooms. Ignoring these red flags could lead to expensive visits to auto mechanics. Here are some that could cost used car buyers in the long run. 

Most car showrooms are great, but those looking for the best cars to buy used should be aware

Buying a brand-new car can be tempting. However, most people buy used options. This is evident as Motortrader says 74 percent of buyers opted for used vehicles over new ones. Of course, this data was from 2019. Regarding price, buyers should know that Kelley Blue Book reports that the average used car price for January of 2025 was $25,564, which is a 3.4 percent decrease from the same time last year. 

Some of the best used cars to buy have low prices but too cheap could be an issue

People looking for the best used cars to buy typically want something with an affordable price tag. However, this can also quickly turn into a red flag. This is especially the case if you encounter a used vehicle priced far less than other estimates you’ve seen for the same car. While a super low price can be tempting, it could signal issues that cause expensive visits to auto mechanics. 

Naturally, much goes into the cost of many of the best used cars. Sometimes, a low price is simply that—a low price, but buyers should be wary of dangerously cheap cars. 

Electrical issues are a red flag

It’s not uncommon for used cars to have issues. Despite this, buyers should be a bit concerned when considering vehicles that have electrical problems. These could be things like lights flickering or other temperamental components. These things often suggest shoddy electrical work, which can lead to widespread problems with the vehicle. Of course, this requires thoroughly examining the used car in question. People who have auto mechanics as friends should have them look at the vehicle before buying. 

Altered badges can signal other issues

People looking for the best used cars to buy don’t often care about the badges, also called logos or emblems, on a vehicle. After all, most car buyers, in general, don’t. However, badges that appear to have been moved or somehow altered can signal that the car has had major repair work done. While this isn’t always bad, you’re at the mercy of whatever method they used to fix the car. Prospective buyers can google pictures of the model to see if the badges seem a bit off. 

The best used cars to buy often still have a lot of life left. Still, this doesn’t mean buyers shouldn’t be diligent about ensuring they get the best possible vehicle for their hard-earned money. 

People looking for best used cars to buy should check out the MotorBiscuit car-buying tool. For more reading, check out this recent article about three things to check before driving a used car.