#BeenVerified

In the internet age, it’s quicker and easier than ever to gather loads of information on any pre-owned vehicle. The license plate lookup tool at Bumper.com is one information source worth looking into.

So you’re in the market for a used car. Congratulations. Whether trading up or acquiring your first car, car-shopping is one of life’s biggest milestones. After all, a car is likely the second-most-expensive thing you’ll buy in your life next to real estate. Whether you’re a veteran or shopping the market for the first time, here are some tips on what to look for when buying a used car, presented as a handy used car checklist.

So you think you’ve found your dream car, or at least your ideal example of your next car. While it may not be the cheapest example on the market, it sure seems to tick all the boxes. It features significantly lower mileage than most other examples. It has all the options you could possibly want: heated seats, automatic climate control, adaptive HID headlights and a branded premium audio system. The vehicle history report comes back as clean as a freshly pressed pair of fine Italian slacks and the vehicle is verified to be free of any liens. You’ve pressed every button you could find and all the electrical gadgets and gizmos seem to be working perfectly. The body appears to be in phenomenal shape, as does the interior. It’s even in your favorite color combination. Oh what a savvy shopper you are. But wait, isn’t there something you’re forgetting? It may seem perfect, but is it actually perfect or is it all a facade? Shouldn’t you get verification that it is indeed the real deal? Of course you should. Here are six reasons why you need a pre-purchase inspection.

Maybe your current car is worn out beyond justifiable repair. Maybe it just doesn’t suit your needs anymore. Maybe you’re looking to buy a car for the first time in your life. Maybe your kids have graduated college and you’re looking for a special ride to celebrate. Whatever the occasion, buying a car can often be both stress-filled and exciting. Here are some tips on how to buy a used car from a dealer or a private seller without getting taken for a ride.

Every vehicle has a story, and before you pull the trigger on any pre-owned car, truck, or SUV, a VIN lookup can help you learn what that story is.