Buying a used vehicle doesn't have to be about buying a clunker that can barely get you around. You can purchase a used vehicle that is still in great shape. There are plenty of used vehicles that are under five years old that you can purchase.

#1 Look at Dealerships

Start your search by looking for vehicles directly from the dealership, for example, for Ford or Lexus or Audi, or whatever brand you prefer. Dealerships don't just sell brand new cars. Many dealerships lease out vehicles, and when those vehicles are returned after their two to five-year lease, the dealerships are then going to sell those vehicles.

Vehicles that were loaned out on a lease are going to be well-taken care of vehicles. The leasers have to agree to get regular oil changes and bring their vehicle into the dealership for maintenance checks. These are vehicles that are used, but are well-taken care of.

Look at the dealership of the car manufacture that you want to buy, and ask if they sell used vehicles that they had previously leased out. This can be a great way to get a used vehicle that is relatively new at an affordable price.

#2 Look for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

Next, look for vehicles that are certified pre-owned vehicles. Certified pre-owned vehicles have to pass inspection standards that are set by the manufacture of the vehicle. The vehicle has to go through rigorous testing and all the equipment on the vehicle has to be in basically like-new conditioning order for a vehicle to become a certified pre-owned vehicle.

When you purchase a certified pre-owned vehicle, you know that you are purchasing one of the best vehicles on the market that you can buy. You are getting a vehicle that is high quality and that shouldn't come with any serious mechanical issues.

#3 Look for Warranties

Finally, look for used vehicles that come with warranties. Warranties are valuable for dealerships and auto lots because they offer them on vehicles that they think are in good shape and will not break down. Dealers do not offer warranties on cars that they already know are in poor condition and are going to have to cash in on that warranty sooner rather than later. Look for used vehicles that come with comprehensive warranties that covers all the major systems and parts on your vehicle.

If you want to purchase a newer used vehicle, look at dealerships for used vehicles that were leased out that they are trying to sell. Look for certified pre-owned vehicles and vehicles that are being sold with warranties; these are both signs of newer and more well taken care of vehicles. Consider vehicles like used Kias for sale to get the kind of car you need.