Smart Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in Used Cars

Looking for a dependable used car? Our guide breaks down what to look for, what to avoid, and the right questions to ask—so you can shop with confidence at Hicks Family Nissan in Robstown.

Shopping for a used car can feel like a lot. On the one hand, you’re hoping to find a great deal. On the other, you’re trying to avoid a vehicle that ends up in the shop more than on the road. Whether you’re upgrading your daily driver or shopping for a first car, knowing what to look for in used cars can make all the difference.

An informed buyer is a confident buyer. This simple, step-by-step guide can help you spot the right car, dodge the wrong ones, and ask the questions that matter.

Your Used Car Buying Checklist

1. Start with Your Needs

Before looking at any car, think about your lifestyle. Do you need space for the kids? Something pet-friendly so you can bring the dogs along? A truck for hauling? Make a list of your must-haves—like Bluetooth, backup camera, or all-wheel drive. Knowing your non-negotiables helps you narrow down your options and stay focused.

2. Decide Where to Buy: Dealership vs. Private Seller

Buying from a private seller can be cheaper, but it comes with risk. No warranty, no certified inspections, and little protection if something goes wrong. At Hicks Family Nissan, every used car we sell is thoroughly inspected, and our Certified Pre-Owned vehicles come with added warranty coverage and peace of mind. Plus, we offer financing, trade-in options, and expert guidance through the process.

3. Exterior Inspection: What You See Matters

Walk around the car and check for:

• Dents, dings, and scratches
• Mismatched paint (could indicate previous bodywork)
• Rust or bubbling paint
• Uneven gaps between panels
• Cracks in headlights, taillights, or mirrors
• Tire condition and tread wear

Small flaws might be normal, but big signs of damage should raise questions.

4. Interior Inspection: Comfort and Condition

Take a seat and inspect the interior for:

• Rips, stains, or heavy wear on seats and carpets
• Musty or smoky odors (which could signal water or smoke damage)
• Warning lights on the dashboard
• Mileage that makes sense for the car’s age
• Functioning windows, locks, climate controls, and infotainment system

If anything seems off, ask questions before moving forward.

5. Under the Vehicle: Don’t Skip This Step

Problems often hide underneath. Look for:

• Leaks or puddles under the car
• Rust on the undercarriage
• Tailpipe residue (black, oily residue could mean engine trouble)
• Signs of damage or corrosion under the hood

This is also a good time to check fluids—oil, brake fluid, and coolant. If you’re unsure, ask a trusted mechanic to take a look.

6. Test Drive: Trust How It Feels

Never skip the test drive. Here’s what to pay attention to:

• Smooth acceleration and braking
• Any noises like clunking, squealing, or grinding
• Pulling to one side while driving
• Steering responsiveness
• Overall ride comfort

A car might look good on paper, but if it doesn’t feel right behind the wheel, keep looking.

Red Flags to Watch For

Knowing what to avoid when buying a used car is just as important as knowing what to look for. Keep an eye out for:

• No maintenance or service records
• Pushy or evasive sellers
• Flood damage indicators (musty smell, water lines, or rust in strange places)
• Oddly low prices that seem too good to be true

If anything feels off, it’s okay to walk away.

What Should I Ask When Buying a Used Car?

Asking the right questions gives you peace of mind. Here’s where to start:

• Has the car been in any accidents?
• Do you have service or maintenance records?
• Is the vehicle part of a Certified Pre-Owned program?
• What is included in the warranty, if any?
• Can I take the car to a mechanic before I buy it?
• Why is the car being sold? (if buying from a private party)

At Hicks Family Nissan, we’re happy to answer all your questions—and we encourage you to ask.

Why Buy from Hicks Family Nissan?

At Hicks Family Nissan, we make buying a used car simple and stress-free. We offer a wide selection of quality used and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, each inspected and ready for the road. Our team is here to help you find the perfect fit—without pressure, and with the kind of transparency you deserve.

We also offer:

• Financing options for all types of credit
• Trade-in evaluations
• Ongoing service and maintenance support

Buying used shouldn’t feel like a gamble. At Hicks Family Nissan, it never does.

Visit Hicks Family Nissan in Robstown, TX to Shop Used Cars

Looking for a used car you can count on? Stop by Hicks Family Nissan and take a test drive today. Our team is here to help you find the right vehicle, answer your questions, and make the process easy from start to finish. Visit us in Robstown today to check out our used and Certified Pre-Owned inventory.