When it comes to motor matters, FHM is embarrassingly short on knowledge. We rely solely on slight variations of 'uh-huh' in car conversations and nothing terrifies us more than a mechanic sucking air through his teeth just before he launches into the inevitable monologue about all the things wrong with our car. So why should you listen to us when it comes to buying cars? Well, you shouldn't. You should listen instead to the experts at AutoTrader.com, the internet's leading auto classifieds marketplace, who we got to write this piece for us.

But whether you know your stuff or you suffer from engine-phobia like us, all guys should keep in mind these ten tips when shopping for a used car:

1. Know what you want

At any time, there are literally millions of used cars for sale. Make a list of the things that are important to you (make, model, model year, body style, options, colors, price range, miles-per-gallon, etc.) and search online using those parameters. This way you can narrow your search to the cars you really want.

2. Research used car maintenance costs

Some cars are more expensive to maintain over the years than others. Auto forums and blogs can help you find out what the upkeep cost might be on the cars you’re considering. You can also ask friends and acquaintances on Facebook, Twitter and other social media outlets for their experiences (or even ask them in person!). If you’re zeroing in on two models and one is much cheaper to maintain, that might help you make a decision.

There probably isn’t a person on the planet who expects to get their asking price when selling a used car, so the asking price is usually a little higher than what they expect to get. Be prepared to negotiate, but negotiate smart. Research prices and values for the car you want and be ready with that information when it comes time to haggle.

Ask the seller to let an independent mechanic inspect the car – most auto dealers and private sellers will expect this. If the seller is worried you’ll run off with the car, ask him or her to meet you with the car at a mechanic or garage of your choice for the inspection. You should expect to pay for this inspection yourself.

CPO cars can only be purchased at dealerships, will have been through a manufacturer-designed program of inspections and repairs and will usually come with an extended factory warranty. CPO cars generally cost a bit more than a similar make and model non-certified used car, but you’ve saved yourself the expense and inconvenience of doing your own inspection, and you get extra warranty protection most used cars don’t come with.

 

6. Beware of scams

Scammers will advertise a popular car at a really low price to get your attention and then work to separate you from your money. Some things to keep in mind: If the deal is too good to be true, it probably is; don’t wire money to someone you don’t know; and if the seller refuses to let you see the car in person, bolt. Sites like www.AutoTrader.com/fraudtips and others offer some good information on avoiding scams.

 

7. Don't get emotional

Scammers for sure prey on your desire for the car to separate you from your money. But even when dealing with an upstanding citizen face to face, don’t let your love for the car prompt you to pay too much or make other compromises you may regret later.

 

 

8. Get out on the highway

Balky steering, annoying wind noise or rattles and general handling problems will present themselves immediately during a test drive at 60 mph on a highway, whereas you might not notice these things at all driving around the Target parking lot or taking a 25 mph spin around the block.

 

9. Have your money ready

If you think you’ll be financing this used car purchase, try to get that lined up before you go car shopping. Knowing how much car you can afford and the monthly payment you can live with will help narrow your search so you don’t spend time looking at cars you ultimately can’t afford. Many dealerships also offer financing in house, so if you think you might use the dealer financing, call ahead of time to see if they offer it and get their rates and terms.

 

10. Know the rules

Title transfer, vehicle taxes, inspection requirements and other government or regulatory items may vary depending on your location. Make sure you’re up to speed on these in your area when working to close the deal. Missing a detail like proper title transfer or paying sales or other auto-related taxes can cause a heap of problems later.

 

The guys at AutoTrader.com will be back soon with further indispensible car advice.