Used car red flags are not limited to strange noises, worn tires or accident history. The smartest buyers look for inconsistencies between mileage, maintenance, condition, price, paperwork and future ownership costs. Learn how to evaluate a used car — and whether it truly fits your life — before you commit.

When should I get a new car? The answer is rarely a specific age or mileage. Learn how reliability, future repairs, budget, safety and lifestyle fit can reveal whether keeping your current car or replacing it is the smarter move.