Top 5 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Car in Duncanville

Posted Tuesday, Jun 24, 2025

Buying a used car can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not a mechanic or you’ve had a bad experience in the past. But don’t worry. At 972 Customs, we’ve helped hundreds of people in Duncanville, Dallas, and surrounding areas find reliable used cars they can trust—and we’re here to help you do the same.

Here are the top 5 things to look for when buying a used car, plus a few expert tips that could save you thousands down the road.

✅ 1. Check the Vehicle’s History

The first thing you want to do is find out where the car’s been. Ask for a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) to look for:

  • Previous accidents

  • Title status (salvage, clean, rebuilt)

  • Maintenance records

  • Number of previous owners

A clean history doesn’t guarantee a perfect car, but it’s a good place to start. At 972 Customs, we’re transparent with every vehicle’s background so you can buy with confidence.

✅ 2. Inspect the Exterior and Interior

When you’re walking the lot, don’t just look for flashy paint jobs—look closely at the details:

Exterior:

  • Are the tires evenly worn?

  • Any signs of rust, dents, or misaligned panels?

  • Do all the lights and windows work?

Interior:

  • Check the seats, dash, and flooring for signs of damage or odors

  • Test the A/C, heat, and sound system

  • Make sure the odometer matches what’s on the paperwork

Don’t be afraid to take your time—a good dealership will give you space to inspect everything thoroughly.

✅ 3. Take It for a Real Test Drive

A lot of dealerships let you do a quick lap around the block, but at 972 Customs, we let you take it far enough to get a feel for how it drives. During the test drive, notice:

  • How do the brakes feel—firm or soft?

  • Does the steering pull to one side?

  • Are there strange noises when turning or accelerating?

  • How does it feel at highway speeds?

This is your chance to catch red flags before you sign anything.

✅ 4. Ask About the Warranty or Return Policy

Even with a solid inspection, used cars can have surprises. That’s why it’s important to ask:

  • Is there a limited warranty?

  • Is the car sold as-is?

  • Are there any return or exchange policies?

At 972 Customs, we offer peace of mind with reliable vehicles and real answers. We stand behind our cars—no tricks, no pressure, just real support.

✅ 5. Know the Real Cost — Not Just the Sticker Price

A car’s price tag isn’t the full story. Be sure to ask:

  • What are the monthly payments with financing?

  • How much is the sales tax and registration?

  • Are there dealer fees or hidden costs?

We keep it simple here at 972 Customs. What you see is what you get—and we’ll walk you through every number before you make a decision.

Bonus Tip: Work With a Dealership That Cares

This might be the most important tip of all: buy from people you trust. A shady dealer can make even the best car a nightmare. Look for a team that:

  • Answers your questions honestly

  • Gives you time to think

  • Doesn't pressure you with scare tactics

  • Offers real solutions, especially when it comes to financing

That’s how we’ve built our reputation at 972 Customs. We help real people find great cars every day—and we’re ready to help you too.

Ready to Shop Smarter?

If you’re looking to buy a used car in Duncanville, swing by 972 Customs. We’ll help you find a dependable vehicle, walk you through financing, and treat you like family from start to finish.

Your next ride is waiting—and we’ll make sure it’s the right one.