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For drivers on the hunt for a late-model pre-owned vehicle, an off-lease car or truck is worth a look. These vehicles have some unique advantages. You can often count on them to be in very good shape, have excellent maintenance records, and have less mileage than other used cars. Here are some excellent models you can get off-lease for less. How Do I Find Off-Lease Vehicles? The best place to find great deals on newly off-lease vehicles is by visiting your local dealership or by going to your dealership's website. Make sure to look in the used car area and speak with a team member to find out the history of the vehicle. Many lease returns go through a reconditioning process and sold as CPO vehicles or Certified Pre-Owned. With millions of lease customers turning in their vehicles, the options are unlimited. more Kia Forte The Kia Forte is a compact sedan with features that will fit any driver. It has a comfortable cabin with room for up to five passengers and lots of user-friendly technology. The wide range of trim levels makes it easy to get the features you want, including leather upholstery in the higher trims along with heated front seats, keyless entry, and a hands-free trunk opener. It comes standard with a rearview camera, and you can get blind-spot monitoring, adaptive headlights, and rear cross-traffic alert. Volkswagen Jetta The Jetta is a stylish and fun sedan. With several engines available, you can get all the power you need without sacrificing fuel economy. There is room for five in the Jetta with up-level models offering synthetic leather upholstery, sport seats, and heat for the front seats. There is a touch-screen display, Bluetooth, and some models come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Mazda 6 The most affordable way to buy a luxurious Mazda 6 is by taking a look at recent off-lease models. The 2017 has an upscale cabin, and it gets excellent fuel economy. The strong engine offers quick acceleration and a fun driving experience. Every 2017 Mazda 6 comes with a rearview camera, and some come with a blind-spot monitoring system along with rear cross-traffic alert. Some models also have automatic emergency braking, automatic high beam headlights, and forward-collision warning. Chevy Traverse If you want to get into a late-model used SUV, the Chevy Traverse is a good choice. The V-6 engine in the Traverse provides 281 horsepower and plenty of acceleration even when you have all three rows filled with passengers. A rearview camera comes standard, and the OnStar communications system is also in every model and available for use with a subscription. The Traverse offers room for seven, and it has a spacious cargo area so you can pack up both people and cargo. These are just a few of the vehicles you can choose if you want to save on an off-lease vehicle. You can find any type of car or truck, whether you need something for commuting to work or a family hauler. Image via Pixabay.com

An SUV is a powerful automobile with four-wheel drive that can be driven over bumpy roads. It combines the features of passenger vehicles with the features of off-road vehicles. You can always find a used SUV with plenty of life still in it. The following examples of used SUV cars have top dependability scores from J.D. Power. J.D. Power's Dependability score is a mixture of quality and dependability scores.  It is a score out of 100 given to each model per year, and is determined by consumer insights, resale, dealership, experience, and performance ratings. more 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 81 out of 100. SUV owners who dwell in the city will enjoy its accurate steering and compact design that makes it a good car to move through traffic and also to squeeze into close-fitting parking spots. 2015 Hyundai Tucson The 2015 Hyundai Tucson is diminutive and is another small SUV with a high J.D. Power Dependability score. This one received an 80 out of 100. Its small size and car-like handling make it easy to drive around town. It is very reliable and also very affordable. 2015 Audi Q3 The 2015 Audi Q3 is a small premium SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. The interior layout and the driving dynamics are all excellent are a great reason to single it out as a noteworthy option. 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser The 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser is a very compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 84 out of 100. It has a very rugged body that contributes to an overall blocky look which has a resemblance to the 1960s Toyota J40 Land Cruiser. Its off-road capability is also very good, and coupled with its high dependability score, this vehicle will appeal to SUV-lovers looking for a used SUV they can off-road in. 2015 Chevrolet Equinox The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is another compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 82 out of 100. There are many models of this SUV on the road today because of the obvious merit of the vehicle. It has good fuel economy and lots of interior room. 2014 and 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK Both the 2014 and 2015 models of the Mercedes-Benz GLK are compact premium SUVs. The 2014 model has J.D. Power Dependability score of 89 out of 100 while that of 2015 has J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. These models of SUV cars have managed to hold on to the top dependability spot in the past two dependability ratings. You should understand that for used vehicles, maintenance history, repair history, and other factors can greatly affect the value and dependability of a particular vehicle, even a high-rated one, and turn it into an undesirable car. You should still follow the best practices to make a good choice when you shop for a used SUV. Image via Pixabay.com

Just because you're looking for a used car instead of a new one, doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality and safety to stay within your budget. When you're shopping for your next vehicle, you can enjoy more peace of mind when you check out these safe used cars for every budget. Under $20,000 The Honda Accord proves you don't have to give up style or safety when you're shopping for a used car. If you choose the 2016 model of this sleek and modern sedan, you'll be looking at spending around $16,000. You'll also discover an impressive variety of safety features. Both the coupe and sedan models are available with Honda Sensing, which is a suite of safety technologies that include automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. more Even better, the 2016 Honda Accord received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Under $15,000 If you're searching for a used car that's under $15,000, consider the Mazda 3. This compact car offers a fun drive, yet it's still a sensible pick for anyone on a budget. Even though it's small enough to easily fit into tight parking spaces, you'll still find plenty of room inside to load up friends or family for an afternoon out. If you get a 2016 model, you can expect to pay around $12,000, and you'll enjoy standard safety features that include a rearview camera and dual front air bags. If you get a higher trim level, you might also find available safety features that include a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic high beams, lane departure warning, and forward emergency braking. Under $10,000 If you think you're limited to a sedan when you're shopping for a safe used car, think again. The 2011 Kia Sportage is one good option you can find for around $9,000. This compact SUV comes standard with a 2.4-liter engine that pumps out 176 horsepower for an exciting drive. In addition to an engaging drive, the 2011 Sportage was also a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Other safety features that come standard on the Sportage include anti-lock brakes, hill start assist, downhill brake control, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Under $5,000 The Toyota Sienna is another great option to consider if you're looking for a safe and budget-friendly used car. The 2010 models of this minivan tend to go for under $5,000. Some Sienna models come with all-wheel drive to help you handle a variety of road conditions. In addition to this great safety feature, you'll also enjoy plenty of room for everyone in the family since it seats up to seven people. Whether you're making the daily commute to work or driving your family around, you want a vehicle that's safe and reliable. Fortunately, you can stay within your budget and still get a safe vehicle when you choose one of these excellent options. Image via Pixabay.com

Buying a used car is an exciting process, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking. You want to make sure you buy the best vehicle at the best price, and that you have all the information required to make an informed decision. Next time you're in the market for a vehicle, keep these questions on the top of your mind. They will make the shopping process easier and more enjoyable. 1. Can you test drive the vehicle? You should always take your potential vehicle for a test drive. Before talking price with the dealer, make sure you can take the car for a test drive. You might even be able to take an extended or overnight drive. Offer proof of insurance and put it in writing that you'll bring the car back with a full tank of gas and less than 100 new miles on the odometer. The longer the test drive, the better. That's how you can find out if it's really the used car of your dreams...or a dud. more 2. Has the dealer done any service on the vehicle? You could be test driving a car that has sat on the dealership's lot for weeks or months. Ask the dealer if they've done any repairs or maintenance since they received the vehicle. This could help you save money. If they have serviced the car recently, you won't have to deal with repairs soon after purchasing the vehicle. Additionally, you should ask if the car has ever been in an accident. Even if it looks fine on the outside, it could have issues inside. 3. What about the certification? For a vehicle in the best possible condition, you want to look for a manufacturer-certified pre-owned car. These have gone through an extensive investigation and inspection process. Ask to see the certification paperwork so you can look over the inspection notes, check the mechanical condition, and understand future service needs. Certified pre-owned cars have become more and more popular, as they are often low-mileage lease returns that have been maintained by the dealer. 4. Does the dealership accept trade-ins? If the dealership will handle this for you, selling your old vehicle is one more thing you can check off your to-do list. This will save you the hassle of selling your car and help pay for your new used car. Remember, you can get a better price and a smoother transaction if you trade in a car similar to the ones the car dealership stocks. 5. Are there any finance or lease agreements available? This answer to this question will depend on the dealership. Many newer franchise dealers offer manufacturer-backed financing. Make sure the rate is equal to or lower than what your bank or credit union would offer. Alongside the natural stress of searching for a new car, the process should be enjoyable. Hopefully these questions will help you feel more confident and clear-headed the next time you are visiting used-car dealerships. Good luck, and happy car shopping! Image via Flickr by Jackie.Ick

Traveling with your family is the perfect time to make memories. Before you leave on your next adventure, consider the vehicle you are driving. If you like the idea of a minivan, the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is perfect for your next trip. Buying a  used van saves money that you can use during your vacation. Seating There is no reason to leave anyone home from the road trip. The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan has plenty of space for seven people to ride comfortably. The seats are spread out over three rows. The back row is a bench seat that helps with cargo space when it is not needed. You have your choice between either cloth or leather seats. If you're planning a road trip during colder months, enjoy the heated front seats. more Cargo Space All four trim levels of the Grand Caravan have plenty of cargo space for anything you need on your trip. With all seven seats occupied, 33 cubic feet of space is available. If you don't need seating for seven, the third row folds flat into the floor. You can use the extra space for a cooler, more bags, or anything else you need for your trip. If you are only traveling with one other person, the second row also folds down for a maximum cargo capacity of 143.8 cubic feet of space. Technology for the Driver The van is full of plenty of technology to help you enjoy your road trip. It starts with a heated steering wheel to keep you comfortable in colder months. Take advantage of the remote start system during lousy weather so the van is ready to go as soon as you step inside. It also includes cruise control standard for open roads that allow you to take your foot off the gas. Many of the trims also feature a power liftgate, making it easier to load and unload all of your gear. Use the rearview camera to get a good look at your surroundings before leaving a parking space. The Bluetooth audio connection means you can make hands-free phone calls and keep you eyes on the road. Keep Everybody Entertained One of the most important aspects of planning family travel is entertainment. Luckily, the van takes care of everyone's entertainment needs on the road for you. Use your steering wheel-mounted controls to find the perfect radio station to fit the mood, whether you want something fun during the day or slower for an overnight drive. All of the trims except for the SE include satellite radio. Ask the kids to bring a movie or two to watch along the way. A DVD player and video monitor are standard equipment in the GT and SXT trims. USB connections for charging or playing music from your MP3 player are standard in all four trims. All of the vans also include an auxiliary audio plug. Stop by Rath Auto in Fort Smith today to explore our 2018 Grand Caravans in person. We'll help you find the perfect minivan before you start making memories on the road. Image via Flickr by nybuspics

Shopping for a vehicle, whether it's new or used, can be a stressful experience. It's a large purchase, and since there are so many vehicles available, you want to do your research but still get a good deal. Shopping for a used vehicle is a smart financial decision, but there are several tips you should consider before signing on the dotted line. Research the Vehicle If you're looking to save money, look at several different manufacturers. Think about making a list of three vehicles that fit your budget and meet all of your needs. There are numerous websites that offer reviews of specific models and trims. Utilize these resources so you can learn more about the vehicle before purchasing it. Kelley Blue Book is a valuable resource that can help you know how much to expect to pay. more Review the Vehicle History Report With used vehicles, you don't know for certain what happened to the vehicle before it landed on the car lot. Was it involved in a fender bender? Are there serious issues pertaining to the vehicle's engine? Was the vehicle deemed totaled by the insurance company? One of the best places to research the vehicle's history is Carfax, as it provides you with the history of the vehicle. Some dealerships will run this report for you, but you can run the report yourself as long as you have the vehicle identification number (VIN). Take a Test Drive It's important to get behind the wheel of the vehicle you're looking to purchase. This gives you a chance to see if you're comfortable driving it and how well it handles. Try to take the vehicle through a variety of situations, such as on the highway, up and down hills, and along rough pavement. Determine if the brakes respond correctly, pay attention to blind spots, and listen for any unusual noises that could indicate worn tires. After the test drive, go into the back seat and check leg- and headroom. Don't forget to look in the trunk as well. Get the Vehicle Inspected Take the vehicle to a trustworthy mechanic to make sure it operates as it should. You might be able to look at the vehicle's frame and engine on your own, but the mechanic can run basic tests for about $100. Even if the seller claims there are no issues with the vehicle, you should take the vehicle to get a second opinion. However, if you're purchasing a used vehicle that's part of a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, these vehicles are thoroughly inspected and include an extended factory warranty. You don't necessarily need to take CPO vehicles to a mechanic. A used car is just as important a purchase as a new vehicle, as it provides you with transportation to get from one place to the next. If you're interested in purchasing a used vehicle, contact the professionals at Rath Auto Resources. They can answer any questions you might have so that you can drive off in an affordable and durable used vehicle. Image via Flickr by Crown Star Images

If it's time for you to purchase a vehicle, you might be wondering if you should buy a new car or a used car. While a shiny new "fresh off the factory floor" car is appealing at first, in the long run, it's much better to buy used. Let's discuss the benefits of buying a used vehicle. Depreciation It's an unfortunate fact of life that all cars depreciate in value. If you purchase a new car, it will have decreased in value by at least 20 percent by the time you've driven away from the dealership. In other words, if you purchase a new vehicle for $25,000, you end up throwing away $5,000 by the time you get home with your new purchase. If you can buy a used car that is one to three years old, its depreciation rates will have stabilized. This makes it a much better value than a brand new vehicle. more Of course, if you plan on driving your new car until it falls apart, depreciation might not be a concern. However, if you buy a used car and then decide it's not for you, the stabilized depreciation rates will ensure that you can resell the car and get most of your money back. Lower Fees Depending on the state where you live, you may have to pay a higher sales tax rate and higher registration fees if you purchase a new car. If you buy a used vehicle, the base price will be lower, meaning that taxes and fees will also be lower. If you're financing your purchase through a lender, buying used could also mean that interest rates on your loan are lower. A lower sticker price, in addition to lower fees, allows you to stretch your dollar even further. You can buy the luxury car of your dreams if you opt for a slightly older model. Insurance In most instances, your insurance company will charge you higher rates to insure a new vehicle. If you choose to purchase a used car, not only will your company offer you lower rates, but you may also be able to drop some components of your coverage. Many used-car drivers choose to opt out of collision and theft coverage, meaning they save even more money. Vehicle History Before the Internet Age, it was risky to buy a used car. Buyers could never be sure if the previous owner had kept the vehicle properly maintained. However, there are now services available to potential car buyers that let them know about a used vehicle's history. You can learn everything from the vehicle's maintenance regimen to whether the car has ever been involved in an accident. Taking advantage of these reports will give you peace of mind and also some leverage at the dealership. These are just some of the benefits of buying a used car. By doing a little bit of research, you can buy a car that you'll love without breaking the bank. Image via Flickr by 401(K) 2013

Student drivers have specific needs when looking for the right vehicle. They usually need space for cargo and passengers, whether they're packing for the dorm, heading to soccer practice, or picking up friends for a night out. Safety features are also ideal as they tend to be newer drivers with concerned parents. Most student drivers also want some connectivity for their music and apps. Here are five used models that meet these needs and more. Honda Fit The Honda Fit provides versatility, efficiency, and style. This five-door sedan is great for college students with long drives home for holidays. Road trips are made easy with plenty of space and less stops for fuel. If you find a model with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, you'll be well-covered on the road. Features like forward collision warnings, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control act as a second set of eyes on the road. more Toyota Prius Go with the 2018 Toyota Prius if you want an updated vehicle with an affordable price and great, student-friendly features. Any used Prius from 2016 until 2018 will have most of the same features as there were no major updates made to the design over those years. The Prius is a four-door hatchback sedan with seating for five people. The Prius also comes in a plug-in hybrid trim, so you can take efficiency to a new level. Students will love the reliability and technology features of a used Prius. Jeep Wrangler For students who love weekend adventures and want some serious capability in their used car, a used Jeep Wrangler is ideal. These vehicles offer lots of space for friends and cargo and they're awesome companions on rough roads. You can enjoy Spring Break by taking on the outdoors or take multiple friends home for Thanksgiving with the family. Jeep Wranglers are in their fourth generation, so any used vehicle from 2017 and on will share most features with new models. Subaru Impreza The Subaru Impreza is a great vehicle for active students who need a reliable vehicle to get to work, practice, and everywhere else. Since 1992, the Impreza has come in five-door models that offer an impressively large cargo area. With standard all-wheel drive, this vehicle is great for students driving in poor weather conditions. In the 2018 models, you'll find loads of great features like a fully-connected infotainment system and jaw-dropping fuel economy. Ford Focus Ford has decided to discontinue the Focus model for 2019, but used models will remain available. The Focus comes in a sedan and a hatchback, so you can decide which best fits your lifestyle. ST models offer some extra kick for students who want some rev to the engine. No matter which Focus model you choose, you'll enjoy a seriously reliable car with top-notch safety, convenience, efficiency, and power. Head to Rath Auto Resources to browse our great selection of used vehicles. Try out a few models with a test drive and see which is the best fit. Image via Flickr by Ya, saya inBaliTimur

Watching the latest commercial for that great new car can really make you want to swap your older car in for a new one! If you're seriously considering doing so, then consider these tips for trading in your car. 1. Check The Value Before bringing your car for swap, be sure to check out its value. There are two basic ways. The first most known way is by checking its value in the Kelley Blue Book online. Via this website, you can check the precise value of your car, down to the digit, by keying in factors such as year, mileage, accessories, and more. more After discovering the objective value online, you'll also need to understand how its value is perceived within the region where you are selling. Like all products, value is weighed by local demand. Car value might be high in urban centers, for example, and somewhat lower in rural areas where the demand is low. Knowing these fluctuations can help you determine whether you should definitely trade locally, go out of state, or perhaps hang on to your car a little longer. 2. Clean A Little, Not a Lot There are mixed views about whether it's worth the time and money to clean up your car prior to trading it. Common sense is a good compromise. While heading to your local mechanic to purchase a car detailing service might not be worth the bucks, you could definitely do some minor vacuuming on your own, wipe the windows, and scrub the stains. Most importantly, remove your personal items and get rid of any smells. Try to get your car to look as good as possible without spending extra cash. 3. Explain The Advantages When you're negotiating a trade-in of your vehicle, be respectful, but not shy! Do not hesitate to inform your buyer of all the things you really love about your car. If there are modern updates or perks which might not be immediately noticeable, like a great stereo system, be sure to inform the dealer. Perhaps the engine is really powerful, and those wheels have gotten you through really rough terrain. Do not be afraid to share these details; it certainly can help! 4. Be Honest With Yourself, Too Trading in your fave set of wheels can be a more prickly experience than some might imagine. Cars do tend to depreciate quickly, and yet, you know personally all the advantages of your car and how great it is. If you like your car and think it's worth a lot, then don't be afraid to pass on an offer you're not truly happy with. If you'd rather keep your wheels with you, or sell it for cash instead of a trade, then stick it out! You never know what opportunity you'll be offered in the future. Trading in your car can be a great experience, especially if you find the car of your dreams and make the perfect switch. Keep these ideas in mind when you're out there looking, and be sure to enjoy the car buying experience, too. Image via Flickr by Michel Curi

Imagine you are fully tuned in to a television commercial or YouTube advertisement. The ad is showing a bright, brand-new vehicle. It's your favorite color. It's the coolest style. Even the price is reasonable. Should you get it? First, answer this: Can you get a pre-owned one just like it? Before buying brand new, consider these four benefits to buying a pre-owned vehicle: 1. Consider Value First There is one rule that seems to have gone unchanging in the car industry for decades: the first driver pays the most. There's a significant price tag associated with being the one to drive a car out of the dealership lot. Even if that car preserves its beauty and low mileage, when it's sold just a few years later, the first owner will have to drop the price substantially in order to sell, often by thousands of dollars. Why? Because it has the label "used" associated with it. more 2. Risk Might Be Minimal Used cars can often be less expensive simply because the second driver is unaware of the history of the vehicle and is thus taking a chance with it. However, nowadays, there are options with more certainty involved for people who want to buy used. For example, dealerships can offer a history retrieval service or a complete checkup of the car in order to assess its state accurately and lessen your worry. Rath Auto Resources, for example, has an auto-check program to help you identify the vehicle's background. 3. "Old" Features Could Be "Just As Good" True, there's nothing like getting into a fresh, newly-built car. It's invigorating. And all the new features, audio system tools, Bluetooth, driver assist and leather seating can be intoxicating! However, bear in mind that even cars that are a few years old could have most of these features already. There are not many offerings out there that are shockingly innovative. While you might compromise slightly on the size of a touchscreen, or the quality of the sound, you can often find most of the current perks on a somewhat more modest scale in a used car. In such situations, a compromise could be well worth the money you save. 4. Lose the Tax Before opting for a new car, check into your state's sales tax policies for vehicles. What is the tax rate on a new car purchased from the dealership? Is there a tax subsidy program if the car is environmentally friendly? And, does your state charge sales tax on used cars at all if it's a private party sale? If you don't need to pay tax on a used car, but you need to do so on a new one, then that could be thousands of dollars saved! The next time you see an outstanding car commercial, enjoy it! Relish in it. Imagine yourself driving in that glistening new ride. But when it comes to forking over your hard-earned money, weigh the benefits of investing in an earlier model. Image via Flickr by RP Norris

If you are thinking about purchasing a used car, then there are some important factors to take into consideration ahead of time to avoid buying a lemon. Check out this list of things to help you with your next used car purchase to ensure you get the right car to fit your needs. 1. Figuring Out Your Budget Calculating how much you can spend on a vehicle is an important part of the budgeting equation but not the only piece. In addition to the cost of the vehicle, you also need to figure in all the ancillary costs associated with it such as financing costs, prospective fuel and maintenance costs, insurance and registration, and a decent road-side assistance program. more Another key (but often missed) calculation is projected costs for major repairs down the road. Used cars cost less because they already have wear and tear associated with them, and the amount of that wear and tear can help determine how long before something major breaks. The key is to find the right balance between the cost of the car and how much you will be paying later on. 2. Build a Target List of Used Cars Once you have a good handle on how much you can spend, the next step is figuring out which used car will fit best into that price range. As a general rule, the more money you have to spend, the more option you will have in front of you, but that isn't necessarily always the case. Use sites like Edmunds and Cars.com to search through large inventories of used cars to find the one that best fits you. The money is only part of the equation for finding the right car. The other part is what you want out of your next purchase. Are you looking for a good winter car, a stylish sedan, an SUV with lots of cargo space, or something else? The last thing you want is to be stuck in a multi-year payment plan on a vehicle you don't want. 3. Check the Vehicle History Report Once you have found the car you really want, the next step is to check its history. If you are purchasing through a dealership then they will provide the report for you, but if you are buying from a private seller then you will need to go online and get one yourself. This is an important step and should not be overlooked. If your prospective car has been in an accident, fire, been salvaged, or stolen, then it will show up in the report. This is a great way to protect yourself from purchasing a defective vehicle that will end up failing and costing you a lot of money. With these tips in hand, you will be in-the-know when going to purchase a used car and therefore able to make an informed purchase. Remember to go through a reputable dealer when making your next used car purchase and good luck to you. Image via Pixabay.com

Buying a used car can be a stressful situation. But, you could find some great deals if you're thorough in your search, don't allow yourself to be rushed, and know what to look for. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you shop for a used car. Make a Budget Before you shop, know your budget. Decide how much you're willing to spend on a used car so you can focus your search on vehicles that fit your price range. Take a look at your finances, and be reasonable. A car should help you get around, not put you in a horrible financial situation. Once you know your budget, try to stick to it as much as possible, but have a good idea of how much higher you'd consider going. more Know What to Look For The search for a used car will be easier if you know what you need out of it. Are you trying to get your entire family to little league baseball games? Are you trying to get the most powerful muscle car for the lowest price? You'll save yourself a lot of time answering these kinds of questions. Research Reliability Once you know what kind of car you want, research what model will last the longest. You don't want to spend the time, money, and effort buying a used car that's going to break down on you in a year. Check to see what other people are saying about the model. When you start shopping around, you'll know how to measure a vehicle's state against its expected lifespan. Start Searching Online shopping is the way to go. You'll be able to search cars in your area using the factors you've decided on, such as make, model, and year. However, a good walk through the used car lots or paper classified ads can turn up some surprising results. See the Title and Look Up Its History When you've found a car, ask to see the title. You don't want to buy a car without the title, and the seller should be happy to show it to you. After you've seen the title, write down the vehicle identification number. It's a 17-digit code that you can generally find at the bottom of the windshield on the driver's side of the dashboard. You can use this number to look up the vehicle's history through services like AutoCheck or CARFAX. Find out if it has any possible issues such as flood damage, discrepancies in the odometer, or past involvement in a major collision. Test Drive and Diagnose Now for the fun part — give it a spin. See how comfortable it is, how it handles curves, and if the radio works. Be as thorough as possible, because there are generally no take-backs once you choose to buy. Look to see if what's under the hood is up to par. Get a mechanic in if you need to. If a car passes all these tests, then you may have found your new ride. Take as much time as you need to make a smart choice, and don't forget to visit us at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith. Image via Pixabay.com