We all want dependable cars whenever we are looking for a used car. Red flags like unusually high mileage, a missing service history, or a large number of previous owners are all examples to watch out for. So are physical issues, like oil leaks and strange noises when driving.
High mileage: Not disqualifying on its own (a well-maintained 100,000-mile car often beats a neglected 70,000-mile one), but mileage matters because every component has a finite lifespan, and higher-mileage cars are more likely to be due for costly work like timing-belt replacement.
Missing service history or unresolved recalls: Without records, you're taking the seller's word for how well the car was maintained. If they claim service was done but lost the paperwork, the article suggests asking them to call the shop for confirmation - a reluctance to do so is itself a warning sign. Also worth checking: an estimated 60 million cars on U.S. roads currently have unresolved safety recalls, easily checked with the VIN.
Questionable ownership history: A single-owner car with consistent records tends to be the safer bet, since that owner has both the maintenance knowledge and financial stake in keeping it in good shape. Prior accident damage isn't automatically disqualifying, but poorly repaired damage can cause alignment issues and accelerated wear, so it warrants closer inspection.
Unusual sights, sounds, or smells: Knocking or clattering engine noises, odd vibrations, an eggy smell (possible clogged catalytic converter), or a burning smell (possible oil leak onto the exhaust) are all worth investigating. Visible fresh leaks in the engine bay are a clear flag. And if a seller won't allow a pre-purchase inspection, the article treats that as a reason to walk away.
Brand reputation: Treated as a soft signal, not a hard rule. JD Power's dependability rankings can point you in the right direction, but they're brand-wide averages that don't guarantee any individual car's condition - and rankings shift year to year, so check the score for the specific model year you're considering, not just the brand's current reputation.
Part of why we’re building our Car Inspection Score comes from some of these specific issues highlighted above.
Thanks for reading everybody!
-Paul