How to Shop for Used Cars: 5 Key Test Driving Tips

August 05, 2022 · 5 min read

Red McCombs Drive Away Motors in San Antonio TX

Over 40 million cars sold in 2021 were used vehicles. Pre-owned cars can be a great purchase, allowing buyers to get their desired car at a much cheaper price than if it was brand new — and often, with very little compromise.

However, when it comes to how to shop for used cars, a big part of finding the right one is the test drive. You need to make sure you’re satisfied with the vehicle and most of this can be done during this part of the buying process.

Find the best cars to buy by paying attention to these things on the test drive.

1. Research the Vehicle Before the Test Drive

Before you even embark on the test drive, you should do your research on a good price. The used car market is full of variables, but you should get a solid idea of what that make and model is usually worth and compare it to the price this seller is giving you.

Then consider on the test drive how smoothly it’s running, how well taken care of it seems, and all of those things that might affect the price.

While a price much higher than what you’ve found to be the typical market value is a red flag, so is a very low price. Be prepared to ask lots of questions during the test drive, and if the price is low, one of these should be: why?

The average price of a used car in the US is around $35,000, but this can vary wildly between cars and even states.

2. Ask a Ton of Questions

As well as questioning the price (if it seems well out of the market range), you should be prepared to ask a bunch of other questions during the test drive. If anything seems even the slightest bit off when test driving used cars, you should look to the seller to explain it immediately.

If they tell you it’s normal, do your research after the drive to ensure they’re telling you the truth. You can never be too careful when buying a used car.

3. Pay Attention When Driving the Car

Although you have to pay attention to the road in a car, test driving also means paying attention to the inside of the car where possible and looking for anything unusual. This might mean something glaringly obvious like the check engine light popping on, but it could also mean something more subtle — sticky brakes, an odd sound, etc.

If you do notice something that you decide is odd, don’t let the dealer talk you out of questioning it until you have a solid answer.

Make sure you’re paying attention at every step of the drive too. When speeding up, when slowing down, when breaking and, if in a manual car, when changing gears.

4. Test Everything

One of the best used car buying tips is to test absolutely everything. Don’t take it for a test drive through the parking lot where you can’t get above 15 mph and decide that the car seems to run well enough for you. You want to take it out on roads where it can gain a bit of speed, test parking it, and try to cram in as much as you might do on any given day if you owned the car.

Pull every lever. Make sure you look inside the glove compartment, adjust the seats and mirrors, and basically do everything you can think of. While it might make you feel awkward to inspect the car so thoroughly, the seller should expect it. Even buying a used car, after all, is not cheap.

It also gives you the opportunity to compare it to what you currently drive and make sure you’ll be comfortable in it, even if there are no faults.

If there’s something the seller doesn’t want you to do or a button they don’t want you to push (for example, if they tell you not to turn on the air conditioning), it’s a red flag that something is wrong with that aspect of the car. Walk away.

5. Check Out the Exterior

During the test drive, don’t forget to look around the exterior of the car before or after driving it. That way, you’ll be able to see any cosmetic issues or even anything dangerous with the tires or wheels.

Although you may not be an expert, a third-party report can assure you that the maintenance is all there — but it’s still a good idea to look at it yourself. Expert or not, cosmetic issues sometimes aren’t difficult to spot!

This Is How to Shop for Used Cars

People often don’t know how to shop for used cars, which leaves them with a car they didn’t inspect properly — and that now doesn’t work right. That’s the last situation you want to be in.

The used car market has plenty of competition, so don’t settle for something you aren’t sure about. Take it for a test drive, examine every aspect of the car that you can, and ask the seller lots of questions about the vehicle and its history.

Looking for certified pre-owned vehicles? Take a look at our large inventory today and we’re sure you’ll find something you love.

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Jul 26, 2022 in Used

What Are The Best Used Vehicles On The Market?

Did you know that around 40 million used cars are sold every year worldwide? The used car market is a great place to purchase pre-owned vehicles. But how do you know how to find the best cars to buy? If you are in need of a new vehicle but don’t have the funds to purchase a new car, you should consider buying a used automobile. However, you must be careful what you purchase because a lot of pre-owned vehicles can be downright lemons. We created this list of the best used cars to buy in 2022 for that reason. Just keep on reading to find the perfect car for you! Chevrolet Silverado You can trust a Chevy pickup truck because it is made to last. It’s been a common vehicle found on the worksite for many years, but it’s also a practical option. The Crew Cab version of the Silverado trucks makes them excellent family cars. Additionally, you will be able to pull your boat or camper for a fun-filled weekend with the kids. Honda CR-V Consider the well-liked CR-V if a small SUV is what you would desire. It has the spaciousness and utility of an SUV while driving like a car. It has also long been a leader in the field. It contains an all-around superior mode with a roomy cabin, superior fuel efficiency, and cheaper ownership expenses. A newer hybrid model is also available, which you might be able to afford. Ford Mustang Let’s not overlook the Mustang while we are discussing used vehicle options. This muscle car is a classic that keeps getting better over time. Although we would love to drive the V8 Mustang GT, we are aware that not everyone can afford one. Of course, there’s also the turbo EcoBoost engine, which offers a thrilling ride while still being economical with petrol. Lexus IS You may afford more luxury with a used automobile without breaking the bank. If that’s what you want, the Lexus IS is a great choice. This small automobile not only has a stylish exterior but also spectacular driving qualities for a thrilling journey. To take advantage of the great warranty coverage offered by Lexus, choose a certified pre-owned model to make the deal even sweeter. Ford F-150 The F-Series lineup has consistently sold well in America for many years, and with good reason. If you plan to work long hours or just want to relax with loved ones, this pickup offers everything you need. There have also been many different versions produced over the years, ranging from the entry-level SL to the luxurious Limited and the off-road-focused Raptor. There is an F-150 available for you, no matter what your budget is. Jeep Wrangler Do you intend to go off-road and wreak havoc on the trails? For these kinds of excursions, a Jeep Wrangler will be necessary. Since the legendary Wrangler has been around for so long, it’s never difficult to obtain a high-quality used vehicle. Choose a model with two doors if space is an issue, or go for four doors if you want to impress your friends. The changeable roof makes every day an intriguing prospect. Additionally, the selection of aftermarket Wrangler accessories is limitless. Kia Telluride Despite being more recent, the Kia Telluride shouldn’t be disregarded. There are times when you can locate a good model in the used automobile inventory, making for an excellent purchase. The certified pre-owned label on one of them is also the best option because it comes with additional assurances. It’s the perfect SUV for larger families or those seeking additional space because it has three rows of seating. Nissan Leaf We advise the Leaf if you have your heart set on an electric vehicle but are unable to purchase something brand-new. It has been in its second generation since 2018. The Leaf Plus was also available in 2019, giving you a wide range of alternatives. You may drive this EV on your everyday commute into the city because its electric driving range is 150 miles. If you need more, choose the Leaf Plus, which has a driving range of up to 226 miles. Toyota Highlander The Highlander is another excellent choice if you want a three-row SUV. It is a top seller for Toyota, mostly as a result of its extreme practicality. Another option is an all-wheel-drive vehicle, which is better suited to rocky terrain or inclement weather. The SUV handles like a little car despite being larger. You might be able to pull up to 5,000 pounds if you can find a secondhand Highlander with a V6 engine. If you want additional efficiency, a hybrid arrangement is also an option. Subaru Outback The Outback is no different from other Subaru vehicles in that they maintain their value over time. Year after year, it is rated as one of the greatest used vehicles to drive. Even if you don’t like the midsize wagon style, this vehicle has a lot of positive qualities. The Subaru Outback, for instance, is excellent in off-road terrain. All-wheel drive is a standard feature as well. This family car is the one for you if it has plenty of ground clearance, good reliability ratings, and superior safety ratings. Now You Know the Best Used Cars and Pre-Owned Vehicles Prior to visiting your local car dealership, it’s crucial to conduct some research to find the best cars to buy for your needs. If you want to shop without feeling rushed, most dealerships make it simple to peruse their inventory online. Want to shop our selection of certified pre-owned vehicles? Click this link to find the best used car available on the used car market now!

Nov 05, 2025 in Car Buying Guide

Certified Pre-Owned vs. Used Cars in San Antonio: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

When shopping for a car in San Antonio, one of the first choices many buyers face is whether to buy certified pre-owned (CPO) or used. Both options can save you thousands compared to buying new, but there are key differences that affect your budget, peace of mind, and long-term satisfaction. At Red McCombs Drive Away Motors, we help San Antonio drivers understand their options and choose the best path toward reliable transportation—especially when credit challenges or tight budgets come into play. Let’s explore what separates certified pre-owned vehicles from regular used cars, and how to decide which fits your needs. What Is a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle? A certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle is a used car that has been thoroughly inspected, reconditioned, and certified by the manufacturer or dealership according to strict standards. Typically, these vehicles: Are less than 6 years old Have fewer than 80,000 miles Must pass a multi-point inspection (usually 150+ items) Come with extended warranties and roadside assistance Often include vehicle history reports (like Carfax) Essentially, a CPO car offers like-new quality with the price advantage of a used vehicle. Browse our Certified Pre-Owned Inventory. What Is a Used Car? A used car, sometimes called a pre-owned vehicle, is any car that has been previously owned but doesn’t carry the manufacturer’s certification. While used cars may not go through the same rigorous inspection process, many are still in excellent condition—especially when purchased from a trusted local dealer like Red McCombs Drive Away Motors. Used vehicles typically: Have lower purchase prices Include a wider variety of makes and models Offer flexibility for buyers on tight budgets or with less-than-perfect credit At Red McCombs Drive Away Motors, we take pride in inspecting and reconditioning our used inventory so every buyer drives away with confidence. View our Used Cars in San Antonio. Key Differences Between Certified Pre-Owned and Used When comparing certified pre-owned (CPO) and used vehicles, here’s what sets them apart: Inspection: CPO vehicles undergo a rigorous, factory-approved inspection, while used cars receive a standard safety check. Warranty: CPO vehicles come with manufacturer-backed warranty coverage. Used cars may be sold as-is or with limited coverage. Price: Certified pre-owned cars cost more due to added benefits, while used cars are the most affordable option. Peace of Mind: CPO cars provide higher confidence thanks to warranties and inspections, while used cars vary based on condition. Mileage and Age: CPO models are usually newer and lower-mileage; used cars come in a wider range of ages and miles. Extras and Perks: CPO cars may include roadside assistance and special financing, while used cars offer broader selection. Which Option Is Best for San Antonio Drivers? Your decision often depends on your budget, driving habits, and peace of mind preferences. Choose Certified Pre-Owned If: You want reliable transportation with warranty coverage. You prefer a newer model with low miles. You value extra protection (like roadside assistance). You plan to keep the car for many years. Choose Used If: You’re focused on affordability and value. You’re rebuilding or establishing your credit. You’re comfortable buying a well-maintained, older car. You want a wider range of vehicles to choose from. For many San Antonio buyers, a used vehicle from Red McCombs Drive Away Motors offers the best combination of quality and price, especially with our flexible financing options and three convenient locations across the city. Local Factors: Buying Pre-Owned in San Antonio In San Antonio’s hot climate and busy traffic, reliability and comfort matter. Buying a vehicle that’s been properly inspected and serviced ensures better performance in local conditions. Whether you’re commuting from the West Side, running errands in Central San Antonio, or cruising down I-35 toward the South, choosing the right pre-owned car can make a huge difference in your daily life. At Red McCombs Drive Away Motors, our team knows the needs of local drivers—from dependable air conditioning to durable tires ready for Texas roads. Financing Options for Pre-Owned Vehicles One major advantage of shopping with Red McCombs Drive Away Motors is our easy, no-pressure financing for all types of credit. Whether you’re buying certified pre-owned or standard used, our finance specialists can help you: Secure low down payments Explore buy-here-pay-here options Get approved even with damaged or limited credit That’s why San Antonio drivers keep coming back—because we make the process simple, transparent, and fast. Learn more about Financing Options. Red McCombs Drive Away Motors: Your Trusted San Antonio Dealership No matter which type of pre-owned vehicle you choose, you’ll find honest pricing, dependable vehicles, and friendly service at Red McCombs Drive Away Motors. With locations in: West San Antonio (Culebra Rd.) Central San Antonio (San Pedro Ave.) South San Antonio (Military Dr.) …We’re ready to help you find the perfect car close to home. Which Option is Right for You? Certified pre-owned and used cars both offer great value—but the right choice depends on your priorities. If you want peace of mind and warranty coverage, CPO is a strong option. If you’re focused on affordability and flexible financing, a standard quality used car could be your best move. Either way, you’ll find a trusted partner here in San Antonio, where we help drivers with every credit background Drive Away today. Shop Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles. Browse All Used Cars in San Antonio.

San Antonio used car dealership helping drivers with bad credit get approved

Nov 14, 2025 in Car Buying Guide

How to Get Approved for a Used Car With Bad Credit in San Antonio

Buying a used car in San Antonio can feel overwhelming when your credit isn’t perfect. But the truth is: thousands of San Antonio drivers secure car loans every year with fair, poor, or even zero credit history. Whether you’re rebuilding your finances, facing medical debt, recovering from a job loss, or have a past repossession, you still have great options — especially when you work with a dealership that specializes in flexible credit approvals. At Red McCombs Drive Away Motors, we help local buyers across the West Side, South Side, Central San Antonio, and surrounding communities get approved every day. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about buying a used car with bad credit in San Antonio, including steps to improve your approval chances, choosing the right vehicle, avoiding predatory lenders, and getting the best possible financing terms. Why Bad Credit Doesn’t Mean “No Approval” in San Antonio Most San Antonio buyers are surprised to learn that credit alone isn’t the deciding factor in auto financing. Lenders also look at: Steady income or job stability Monthly budget and living expenses Down payment amount (even $500 helps) Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) Vehicle choice and price range How long you’ve lived in the area Your current financial stability — not your past mistakes This is why so many local drivers, including those near Military Dr., Culebra Rd., SW Loop 410, I-10, and Hwy 90 qualify even after major credit setbacks. And because Red McCombs Drive Away Motors specializes in serving customers with challenged credit, we’re able to offer more flexible programs than traditional banks or credit unions. Step 1: Set a Realistic Budget (This Improves Approval Odds) Before applying, it’s important to understand what payment fits comfortably within your monthly income. A good guideline: Your car payment should be no more than 10–15% of your take-home pay. For example: $2,500 monthly income → $250–$375 payment $3,000 monthly income → $300–$450 payment $4,000 monthly income → $400–$600 payment Your monthly vehicle cost also includes: Insurance Gas Maintenance Registration Occasional repairs Our finance team can help you calculate the ideal payment range for your situation. Get started with our 60-second pre-approval application. Step 2: Check Your Credit Report for Fast, Easy Wins Before visiting any dealership, pull your free credit report: You’re looking for things like: Incorrect late payments Duplicate accounts Accounts marked open that were closed Incorrect balances Fraudulent activity Even fixing one small inaccurate collection can boost approval terms. If you’re able to resolve small collections under $200–$300, lenders often view this extremely positively. Step 3: Bring Documents That Make Approval Easier To simplify financing, bring: Valid Texas driver’s license Proof of income (pay stubs or bank statements) Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, etc.) Proof of insurance (or we can help you arrange it) Employer contact information Self-employed? No problem. Bring: Bank statements 1099s Profit & loss statements (optional) The more documentation you provide, the faster the approval process moves. Step 4: Choose the Right Vehicle for Bad-Credit Financing Some vehicles are easier to get approved for because lenders consider: Vehicle age Mileage Reliability Insurance cost Price range Resale value In San Antonio, popular choices for budget-friendly financing include: Toyota Corolla / Camry Honda Civic / Accord Nissan Altima Ford Fusion Hyundai Elantra / Sonata Chevy Cruze / Malibu Compact SUVs like Ford Escape or Nissan Rogue Browse San Antonio’s best affordable used cars. Looking for cars $10k and under? See what we have in stock. Step 5: Understand Your Loan Terms Before Signing Anything A trustworthy dealership will walk you through: Interest rate Loan length Monthly payment Warranty options Service contract details Total loan amount Down payment flexibility What happens if a payment is late At Drive Away Motors, our team explains everything clearly — no pressure, no confusing jargon, and no hidden surprises. Why San Antonio Drivers Choose Red McCombs Drive Away Motors We proudly serve: Alamo Ranch Leon Valley Balcones Heights South Park Downtown SA Dellview The Medical Center area Military families near Lackland AFB & Kelly Field And many other areas in and around San Antonio Our customers choose us because: We specialize in bad-credit auto financing We offer fast approvals, often same-day We have a wide selection of dependable used vehicles We are part of the trusted Red McCombs Automotive family We treat every customer with respect — never judgment Visit one of our three convenient San Antonio locations: WEST CENTRAL SOUTH Pro Tips That Can Improve Your Approval This Week Pay off a small collection ($50–$200) Increase your down payment slightly Don’t apply at multiple dealerships in the same week Bring all your documents Choose a realistic vehicle that fits your budget Be prepared to show proof of steady income Small steps make a big difference in the financing process. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can I get approved with a repossession? Yes. We help customers with prior repossessions every week. Do I need a co-signer? Not always, but a strong co-signer may lower your interest rate. How fast can I get approved? Many San Antonio drivers receive approval the same day and drive off within hours. Can I trade in my old car? Absolutely, even if it’s not paid off. In fact, you can value your sell or trade in here. Can I shop before applying? Of course! This helps us match you with the right options. Browse inventory. You Can Get Approved and Drive Away Today Bad credit isn’t permanent and it shouldn’t stop you from driving a safe, reliable used vehicle in San Antonio. With the right plan and the right dealership, approval is not just possible, it’s also achievable today. Take the next step to driving away today: Apply Online and Get Pre-Approved (Fast & Secure) Browse Used Cars in San Antonio Find Your Nearest Location