The task of purchasing a car or truck is one that requires both caution and patience, especially when looking at the prospect of buying a used vehicle.

When you set out to buy a used car, you will most likely be using the classifieds, either online or offline, to help you in your search. In a country where the majority of cars are sold as used, the hunt can be overwhelming at best.

Keep reading to learn how you can navigate classified ads to buy the best used car for your needs.

1. Dealer Listings

Most car classifieds, particularly in color-printed used car guides, are dealer listings. You’ll often find a dealership takes out a full page or multiple pages for their listings, including photos of the vehicle and pertinent details.

If the vehicle is under warranty, the dealer should say so in the listing, along with the car’s mileage, make, model and year.

2. Private Listings

Private listings are posted by individuals wishing to sell their vehicle themselves. While a private sale can save you money, you need to be a more cautious consumer.

To avoid picking up a lemon or a bad deal, always obtain a full car history and have the car inspected by a third-party, licensed mechanic before you buy. Also, ask the seller for a copy of any and all repair receipts from over the years.

For private listings, sellers will often list the price as “firm” or “OBO.” OBO is an acronym that stands for “Or Best Offer” – this means the seller is open to negotiation and will sell to the buyer who offers them the best price.

If, on the other hand, the seller has listed the price as “firm,” this means they have set their price as listed and are unwilling to negotiate on the price.

3. Auction Listings

Auction listings aren’t actually selling the vehicle, but rather advertising it for future sale at a car auction. You can review the vehicle and find out when and where it is being sold at auction, but you can’t buy it immediately.

However, with the advent of online auctions and many car sellers going online, you can also find online auctions for cars. Just like a regular eBay purchase, buyers bid on the product, with the highest bidder getting the car. Most auction sales, whether through an auctioneer or a private seller, are”as is” sales.

4. “As Is” in Used Cars

“As Is” indicates the car is sold without any guarantee or promise about its condition. Typically, these cars are sold without any form of safety inspection or certification, meaning you will be responsible for making the car road-worthy if it has significant drivability or safety problems.

You will need to be very cautious about what you’re getting with an “as is” vehicle, being sure to check all its functions, accessories, history, and more.