Everyone says that speaking in public is one of the world’s biggest fears. A close second is shopping for used cars from your local dealership. It’s not always easy to explain used-car-phobia, but there are some pretty common elements of the process that make us uneasy.

Here are some of the most common reasons shoppers fear looking at used cars and how you can combat them:

Getting The Runaround When Shopping Used

When drivers step onto a used car lot, they usually fear that a sales shark is going to try and take advantage of them. This includes everything from being pressured into a vehicle you don’t really want to overpay for your dream car.

One of the best ways to deal with being underestimated on the car lot is to do your homework. Take some time to explore what kinds of vehicles interest you the most. You can read reviews, learn about upgrade options, and even create a simple budget. Look at the dealership’s website to know what they offer and if there are any specials to consider.

If you walk onto the showroom floor armed with information and a clear picture of what you want, it’s much more difficult for anyone to put one over on you.

Buying A Lemon

Another giant fear that drivers have when shopping for used cars is that they’ll run into major problems in the near future. Sure, no used car is going to be in perfect condition, but that’s not the same as buying something that immediately breaks down. Repairs right after the purchase can really make you feel like a sucker.

The first thing you want to do to avoid this problem is to research the dealer’s reviews and warranty options. Not every car is eligible for a warranty, but you might be able to get a service contract or other perk. Make sure that the dealership actually looks at, repairs, and reconditions vehicles before putting them on the lot. You can ask for documentation on the work that was done as well as a vehicle history report.

If you’re shopping from a lesser-known dealer or an independent seller, take the car to a trusted mechanic to get a professional look at it before buying.

Not Getting Competitive Financing when Shopping Used

When you expect to take out an auto loan, you might be scared to get a bad deal. Modern used cars come with competitive financing rates and terms, but you still want to be confident in your decision.

You can always shop around for pre-approval from banks, credit unions, and other lenders. You can even apply for financing at your dealership of choice.

Make sure you look at more than just rates. A bank might offer you a lower rate but charge a giant upfront fee just to loan you the money. A used car dealership typically offers more flexibility through its in-house financing options. You can even find some dealerships that offer no or low down payments that help you afford the vehicle of your dreams.

Shopping Used With Confidence

Just like the Mario Brothers stop ghosts in their tracks by looking at them, you can combat your used car buying fears by facing them head-on. By doing your research, investigating the vehicle, and shopping around, you can make your next trip to the dealership more fruitful and more enjoyable. Now that you’re equipped, no used car dealership can stand in your