Hi everyone, my name is Linda and I’m a lawyer. I’m thinking about upgrading my car – I currently drive a 2013 Chevrolet Aveo and I’m looking for something newer, maybe a 2019 model. I don’t know much about cars, so I want to make sure I check everything properly before buying. Any advice or tips from people who know their way around cars would be really appreciated!

 

Welcome to the forum. In order for anyone to provide you with assistance on this, I would suggest that you make a list of things that you want in a vehicle. Things like do you want to subcompact, CUV, four-door sedan, etc. Other things like do you look for a gas-powered, hybrid, or full EV. Once you've done that then someone would be able to provide you with suggestions.

 

Hi Linda! Good idea to do some homework before buying. I’d suggest checking service records, making sure the car hasn’t been in an accident, and running a VIN check to confirm everything matches.

 

Buy from a private party who was the original buyer of the car. They should have all the repair and service records for the vehicle, unlike a used car dealer. If they do not have the records then walk away and look for something else. Be prepared to drive 50 miles to find a good vehicle and Autotrader and Craigslist are good places to look. Kelly Blue Book provides information on what other similar cars sold for in the prior year in your area.

Carcomplaints.com and other websites provide information on problem models and model years. The car forums for a specific model are also a good place to learn about possible or probable issues.

Get an independent mechanic to check out the vehicle and put in on a lift. On a lift it is easier to detect problems with the frame, the suspension, the wheel bearings and other components that are expensive to replace.