In 2022, 36.2 million used vehicles were sold in the United States, and this number is actually down from prior years. Buying a vehicle used rather than purchasing it new off the lot can certainly enable you to save money, but it's important to proceed with caution lest you end up with a lemon. Here are four helpful tips to keep in mind when buying a used car.

1. Check out Used Car Rankings and Reviews

Some vehicle models are less prone to issues over time than others, making them better choices when buying a used car if you want to avoid the potential for costly repairs. The best way to determine whether a used vehicle is a sensible purchase is to check out used car rankings and reviews through sources such as U.S. News and World Report.

2. Take a Test Drive

You can sometimes tell a lot about a used vehicle and any issues it might have just by taking it for a short test drive. Regardless of whether you are purchasing the vehicle from a dealer or an individual, you should always request a test drive before you sign the dotted line.

3. Ask for the Vehicle's Service History Paperwork

Knowing a vehicle's service history can tell you how well the vehicle has been maintained, in addition to alerting you of any major repairs that have been conducted on it in the past. If the dealer or individual that you are purchasing the vehicle from does not have its service history paperwork available, you can use a tool such as CARFAX to easily find this information.

4. Getting a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Paying a mechanic to inspect the used car you are thinking about buying before you make the purchase can potentially save you from a lot of headaches. Along with letting you know if there are any issues with the vehicle, a mechanic who performs a pre-purchase inspection should also be able to tell you how much those issues will cost to repair, so that you can factor that cost into deciding if the vehicle is a good value or not.

5. Make Sure You're Getting a Good Deal

Speaking of deciding whether a used car is a good value at the price for the asking price, consider using a resource such as Kelly Blue Book to determine the vehicle's value. Entering the make, model, and condition of the vehicle on the Kelly Blue Book website shows you how much you should pay for the vehicle based on what others have paid in your area so that you don't end up paying more than it is worth.

Once you've found a reliable and issue-free used vehicle that you would like to buy, the next step is to ensure you have the right coverage for the vehicle. To learn more about your options, be sure to contact your local National General insurance agent today.