Don't let a smooth talker or a clean wash fool you. These five warning signs can save you thousands.
A fresh detail job and new floor mats don't mean a car is in good shape. Watch for these red flags: 1) Mismatched paint panels (sign of prior accident repair). 2) Musty or mildew smell inside (water damage). 3) Uneven gaps between body panels. 4) Seller reluctance to allow a pre-purchase inspection. 5) VIN mismatch between the door jamb, dashboard, and title. A professional inspection catches all of these before you sign anything.