It’s easier than at any other time in history to find cheap used cars by owner, thanks to the World Wide Web. With private listings, auction sites like eBay and live auction listings, used car superstores, dealerships listing used cars online, and all sorts of other options it’s a snap to find used cars, compare their features and prices and even complete the purchase. Avoid the sucker bets by keeping a few things in mind.

Online doesn’t mean 100% honest. People often rely too much on the information in media such as television and the Internet. Just because something is written in a newspaper or mentioned on the radio doesn’t mean it’s 100% true. The Internet is no different. Promises can be fabricated, as can proof of those promises. The same predators that run shady used car lots can get onto the Internet Shady car dealers use the Internet too. But now the buyer can’t see their cheap suit, smell their cheap cologne, or get a glimpse of the bad condition of the cars or the facility. Scratches and dents can be edited out by anyone with an image software. “As is” is still the rule on the net, but people ignore common sense. It doesn’t mean everyone is lying or that every deal is a bad one, but don’t go in with closed eyes.

Always have cheap used autos inspected by a good mechanic. That means driving the car to a garage. Get a mechanic to take a look for you if you won’t see the car before the deal is complete. Many mechanics offer a remote inspection service. There’s no need to rely on the seller’s inspection or garage. An independent opinion is best. The purchase price and money for repairs can be saved with a small inspection fee.

Consider the bottom line price, not financed payments. Force the salesman to reveal the price, not just your monthly installments. Dealers often use the financing to add a few dollars to the price, so don’t use their finance company. Pay cash or find your own loan. And when you pay cash, demand a discount.

Cheap used cars are a reality. Buyers aren’t on their own when looking. Don’t let a shiny pitch trick you into a bad purchase.