For many, buying a car is the second biggest purchase of their life. It's an investment that will affect your transportation needs and your financial situation in the near and distant future.

When buying used cars in san diego, it's essential to buy the right car. It may not be as complex as buying a home or a piece of jewelry, but you still have to research your options and find out what is truly best for you.

While buying a used car can be risky, many buyers put themselves at even more risk by doing the wrong things. Here are some of the most common mistakes you'll want to avoid:

Buying from unreliable sources

Consider your source of used cars before you buy. The most reputable dealers in your area will typically have a good reputation. Ensure that they have been around for at least four years and have an established history of selling quality vehicles.

Buying the first car, you see

Before you even start shopping for a used car, do your research to find out if there are any patterns in used car sales. Keep track of what you see, and then check to see how these cars are holding up a few years down the road.

For instance, if you see many Accords for sale in your area, you'll probably want to consider that. The Accord is a great car, but you want to make sure that your purchase is in good working order.

Buying a car that has been in an accident

Even if the damage doesn't look like it will affect performance, you still don't want to take a risk. No matter what the car's condition is afterward, you don't know what may happen once you begin driving it. Once the vehicle is damaged, it will never be the same.

Not trusting your instincts

If you don't like a car, then don't buy it. It's as simple as that. This doesn't mean you should completely ignore your research, but you should use this information to help eliminate certain vehicles from the running. Go with your gut and if it says something is wrong, find another car.

Try your very best to avoid these common mistakes when purchasing a used car

If it's your first purchase of a used car, you'll need to give yourself a little leeway if you make a mistake. You'll eventually get used to the idea of not trusting people first and asking questions that get to the heart of the matter.

Above all else, always remind yourself that you're the buyer and the customer is always right. If you don't think the car is a good fit, move on to the next one. Buying isn't always easy, but it's all about finding the right option for you.

You don't have to buy the first car that you see. By conducting thorough research and making intelligent decisions, you can buy a vehicle that will have you smiling every time you get behind the wheel. That's all a person could ever hope for when purchasing something as valuable as the vehicle that will transport them everywhere they go.