Several million used cars swap homes annually and unfortunately at least half of these are purchased with only minimal thought toward reliability, ease of maintenance, and resale value. Since a poor used car has about the same life expectancy as hubcaps in the Bronx, an informed purchase is a wise purchase. A wise purchase will rarely hold your wallet hostage. Remember, buying used does not mean buying abused.

In the following paragraphs I will highlight several basic principles from past articles that can minimize heartburn and indigestion before and after your second-largest investment.

First, do your genealogy; no, not to check in on your ancestors, but to research the parent company for the vehicle under consideration. What reputation has the company established? What does the track record indicate for this particular model? What do consumer publications have to say? Talk to friends that have the same model, or perhaps a mechanic or service manager with at least a couple of years experience working with this product line, and ask for an opinion.

Second, don’t let your eyes fall in love before good judgment and sound business decisions have a chance to prevail. Although unfortunate, I have witnessed numerous occasions in which marriages have begun between an owner and automobile only to end in a tragic divorce. We may even spend a honeymoon period in which the car can do no wrong and seem oblivious to the fact that our friend has a smoking and drinking problem, not to mention piddling on our clean garage floor.

Third, check the physical condition of your contingent transportation partner. Look for ripples in bodylines that may indicate previous accident damage or cancer repair. Inspect tires and note any uneven tread wear, which may point to alignment or suspension problems.

Fourth, carefully check fluid levels and condition noting any that are unusually dark or smelly. With the engine shut off remove the oil fill cap and dip your finger inside the valve cover. Did you come out with great gobs of Goopucky or just an oily finger? Abnormal amounts of sludge build-up (car-lesterol) could mean an early heart attack for both your engine and bank account.

Fifth, take the car for a test drive that encompasses a cold start, stop-and-go city driving, and a freeway run if possible. How did it perform? Were there any hitches in the get-along? Did the car stagger to life or did it seem happy to be alive?

Sixth, ensure that the asking price represents a fair market value as indicated in the various buyers’ guides, or price comparisons with other vehicles.

Seventh, have your favorite technician give the creature a complete physical exam and EKG. In the long run, the cost of this inspection will prove invaluable whether or not you decide to continue with the purchase.

Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. As a wise businessman once said, “If you want fine fresh oats, you must pay a fair price. However, if you want oats that have already been through the horse that comes a little cheaper.” If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Remember, the Lemon Law does not apply to used car purchases in Washington, so investigate your purchase carefully prior to grabbing a fistful of cash and racing to the car lot.

Enough on used cars; let’s briefly discuss new cars. New car purchases aren’t tremendously different than those of the used variety once you’ve factored in the hefty depreciation after purchase. An unusual engine/transmission combination or an exterior color that causes your neighbors to move may be an unwise investment unless you plan on driving your creation until the millennium.

Typically, a purchase with an eye toward what other folks may like will command a higher resale price within the first 10-year period. Generally speaking, the less expensive commuter cars haven’t fared well in the resale market. Can you imagine the likes of a Vega, Pinto, or Chevette as prized possessions for the grandkids in the years to come? I didn’t think so. Whether you’re considering a new car or used car, the bottom line is the same. Do your homework. Spend a little time on-line, and whatever you do, don’t let your eyes fall in love before your heart, mind, and wallet agree.

To sum up this oratory in 25 words or less; take a look at what has done well in the years past as a gauge for present or future investments. Although this won’t always predict a winner, it’s a great beginning point. Okay, okay, I know that was 32 words, but who’s counting?

(Editor’s Note: Doug Haughton has written and published nearly 300 automotive related articles. His book, titled, “Care and Feeding of the Automobile,” is nearing completion. Doug is co-owner and General Manager of Liberty Bay Auto Center in Poulsbo.).