Almost everyone will buy a used car at some point in their life. It can be less expensive than purchasing a brand-new model and could perform just as well. Safety, reliability, model and fuel economy should all be taken into account when purchasing a pre-owned car.

Finding a car with extra protection is a priority for some. No car is completely safe, but if you have children or you worry about how well you can defend yourself against irresponsible drivers on the road, you can find many safety features available to help quell your fears.

These features include side airbags, crumple zones and roadside assistance. Prices may go up with more safety features, but it could save your life – or at least relieve some of your anxiety.

Perhaps the most important factor in choosing a car is reliability. Some models seem to last forever while others can be plagued by constant breakdowns and repairs. Do your research, and find out which are the most reliable car models, lest your vehicle end up in the shop more often than on the road.

With fuel prices fluctuating so widely, you can never be certain what you’ll have to pay for gasoline at any given point. A car with good fuel efficiency will not only help you save money, but will cause less air pollution.

What model you should choose ultimately comes down to your personal preference. Maybe you want a luxurious, smooth ride. Or perhaps you are looking for something reliable with great fuel economy. Someone with children might be looking at a spacious minivan. Think about what you’ll need from your car. It will help narrow your range of choices.

Used car listings can be found in newspapers, magazines or even the Internet. A friend might be able to offer some excellent insight. Don’t buy the first car you see either. Be patient and weigh your options. You may even find an incredible bargain.

Always have a professional inspect the car before you make your purchase. Shady dealers might tell you the car is in perfect condition, but it may fall apart once it’s in your driveway.

Be patient and think the purchase through. It may seem like a lot of effort, but a reliable car is certainly worth it.