How to find a used car that suits your budget

How to find a used car that suits your budget and isn't a lemon!

Wow. One of my 'most discouraging moments' comes when the car gives up the ghost and I've got to find a used car to replace the old one. I've had a bit of experience in this area, so I'd like to pass on what I've learned to you. The last thing you want to do is fork over hard-earned cash for a used car that turns out to be nothing but trouble! Here are the steps and strategies I follow to find a used car that's reliable and fits my budget.

1.Unless your car is completely trashed and worth nothing, sell it for what you can. Don't try to play fancy games with ads stating things like, new paint, needs tires, when actually what it needs is a new engine. You're just wasting your time and slowing down the process of finding a replacement vehicle. (I've not actually placed ads like that myself, but have answered a number of them!)

2.If your car is beyond redemption, within the confines of your own budget, consider donating it to an organization which will do whatever repairs are required and then sell it themselves. You'll at least get a tax deduction.

3.While pursuing steps 1 and 2, go over your budget and see what you can afford. If you have a savings account sufficient to find a used car for which you can pay cash, this might be a good move. While you don't want to deplete your savings, paying $1500 cash for a used car gives you more negotiating power. Cash talks. The classifieds are full of older cars in this price range, some of which may be a one-owner, well maintained vehicle, driven by a little old lady who no longer uses her car.

4.If you need to find a used car that's a later model and will need to finance most of it, it becomes a little more complicated. Banks will not finance a car that's older than 9 years and usually require a down payment. Check with your bank and see what their loan requirements are. Then go through the classifieds with those parameters in mind. Find out what your insurance will be and work this sum into your budget as well.

5.Whether you pay cash or finance, the classifieds are where you're most likely to find a used car at the best price. Used car lots buy low and sell high.

6.When you find a used car that seems to fill the bill, never fork over any money, except perhaps a refundable deposit, until you've had your mechanic look the car over. If he or she gives you a thumbs up, you're good to go.

Using these tips as a guideline, you should be able to find a used car that you can afford and which is reliable. Good luck.