There are traps to avoid when buying used car Published June 30, 2010 By Richard Brock 81st Training Wing legal office attorney adviser and civil law chief KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Our first car is usually a used one and probably is the most we've ever spent at any one time on a personal item. Our first car is often an impulse purchase which means we haven't given it a lot of thought. There are many questions that should be asked. Can I afford it? Is the dealer reputable? Have you talked to others who have purchased a used car? Have you talked to your first sergeant? Where will you obtain financing? Are you paying more than you should? Will you be "upside down" after the purchase? Most used cars are traded in because of a problem with the vehicle, so for the most part, you're buying someone else's problem. Then you usually pay more for the car than it's worth. There is a blue book value that reflects retail, dealer, wholesale and loan values. You should shoot for a cost right at loan value. Check to see if you can afford it. Remember, not only do you have a monthly car note, but insurance, license tag, normal maintenance and gas fill-ups. If you have no credit because you are just starting out, you have to shop around for a good interest rate. Your credit union is probably the best place to see if you can qualify for a loan. There are used car dealers that guarantee that they can get you a qualified for a loan and they can -- at a high rate of interest. Most finance companies don't care if you can really afford to keep the car running once you buy it. They want a sale and if you are military, you probably won't be around to make a complaint about the dealer. Before you buy, see if you can take the car to a mechanic for an inspection. For about $50, a mechanic will check out the car and spot problem areas fairly quickly, such as burning or leaking oil, transmission problems, fluids, belts, suspension and front end tire wear. Take your time. Shop more than one car dealer. Ask permanent party members for recommendations. Check with the legal office to see whether complaints have been received about a dealer that you're considering.