Buying a car from a private party is different from a buying a car from a dealer's stock of certified cars. You'll have to look more closely at the car and the procedures before going on to buying the car. The car being a used car makes it even more important for you to be more critical before buying it.

The first step you make is to ask trusted expert about what to check in a car. You can try a professional mechanic or inspector, or maybe someone you know who has been through purchasing a used car before. When you get to know what to see in a car, you'll be able to ask the right questions to the seller of the used car you're buying.

Look into the car's history. Get the car's serial number and do a history check on it. Also ask about the repairs and maintenance done to the car. This is something that should not be ignored so that you'll know what other things need to be done to the car, mostly for safety. If you're bent on buying the car even when it needs work here and there, then ask about what can be done to fix the car.

Taking the car for a test drive is necessary. Check if the engine starts instantly or if you feel some cranking. Take some time to listen to how the engine sounds. It should sound smooth and regular. Check with the lights, the turn signals, radio and speakers, and also the heat and air conditioning. Start driving slow first, checking with the brakes and the clutch. Take the car for a test drive for at least 20 minutes. Accelerate slowly until you go full throttle. Check the engine again when on full throttle. Exhaust smoke when on full throttle might be cause to worry. If this happens, check with the seller and a professional mechanic.

Check for weird mechanical noises. If there's anything amiss, ask about it. See if you're comfortable while driving and the gears and acceleration are alright with you. At least 20 minutes of test drive can help you accomplish these questions.

It's better to do the test drive and the inspection in broad daylight. Take a flashlight and some rags just in case if you need to make a more thorough inspection of the car. Inspect it for leaks, crash damages, etc. Check the engine oil, the brake fluid, the transmission fluid and coolant. If you have the chance to go over every part of the car, you can do so. Take your time. You can also take some notes and go over them with your trusted expert for more clarifications and insights.

These inspections are critical. If you're going to buy and own a car, you should settle for a car that won't give you any problems in the future. Take your time and don't rush yourself. Once you've found that everything is to your satisfaction, then make your offer and start the negotiations to buy the used car.