Car History

• You can get a car's full history report on Carfax simply by entering the VIN number. You can find the VIN number in the car's ownership papers or by looking under the car windshield on the driver's side. You can get five Carfax reports for $44.99. Each report will include warranty information, and consumer and safety ratings.
  
  

Certified Used Vehicles

• Many car companies now certify the quality of more recent used car models. Typically, cars sold under this program have passed a rigorous mechanical inspection. The car manufacturer will also offer some kind of short-term warranty. Expect to pay more for these cars than one bought through a private sale.
  
  

Online Research

• Many websites exist to help inform you about the used car buying process, and car quality and specs. Samarins offers an extensive look at the process and provides links to the best sites for used cars in your area. Edmunds is also a very thorough website, with car-buying tips and separate sections on private used cars and certified used cars.