When buying a used vehicle, no one wants to get stuck with a lemon. While luck has a little to do with it, research and investigation will help you find a vehicle that will give you years of reliable driving. Below are a few tips that can help you avoid getting stuck with a lemon.

• 1. Before you start looking for a vehicle, you can do a little research on-line to see which vehicles are prone to problems. Sites like Consumer Reports' provides best and worst lists, and reliability history charts that can steer you away from problem vehicles.
• 2. Dealers are required to post a window stickers with valuable information about the car. Here you will find the vehicle identification number (VIN) which you can use to check the history of the car.
• 3. Visually inspect the car yourself. Look at the interior, exterior, the tires, and under the hood. Look for wear, leaks, dents, and anything out of the ordinary that could lead you to believe the car may have been abused.
• 4. Take the car for a test drive. Make sure it starts easily, the steering doesn't wander, the suspension is smooth, acceleration is smooth.... and be alert for anything that may lead you to believe there could be a problem.
• 5. Check to see of there have been any Recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) on the vehicle, and if there are, ask for proof of them being repaired.
• 6. If you are serious about buying the vehicle take it to a shop that specialized in inspections and have a mechanic look the vehicle over. A thorough diagnosis should cost about $130, a small price to pay to reduce the chance of having a huge repair bill in the future.

It is a good idea to bring a friend with you when looking to purchase a new vehicle. Someone who does not have a personal interest in the vehicle can give you a more critical look at it. With these tips and a little luck, hopefully you will purchase a vehicle that will give you years of problem free driving.