Hicks Family Subaru
Shopping for a used car? Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi shares what to avoid when buying a used car and the red flags to watch out for—so you can drive home with peace of mind.
There’s something empowering about finding the right used car — especially when it fits your lifestyle and your budget. Whether you’re gearing up for weekend hikes, school drop-offs, or daily commutes across South Texas, the right vehicle makes all the difference. But there are a few used car buying mistakes that can quickly turn that excitement into frustration if you’re not careful.
At Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, we believe buying a pre-owned vehicle should be a confident, clear process, not a guessing game. So we’re breaking down what to avoid when buying a used car, and how to spot the red flags before they lead to costly regrets.
We love spontaneous road trips, but your car-buying journey should always start with a little research. Knowing what a vehicle is worth using tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds can help you spot an overpriced listing or recognize a truly good deal.
Dig a little deeper into the model’s history, too. Are there known mechanical issues or recalls for the year you’re considering? Some quick research can help you steer clear of problematic vehicles and give you more confidence in your choice.
No matter how great the car looks, its past matters. A vehicle history report tied to the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can reveal critical information, like whether the car was ever in a serious accident, flooded, or had the odometer tampered with.
These are major red flags when buying a used car, and at Hicks Family Subaru, we provide a vehicle history report with every pre-owned vehicle so you can move forward with full transparency.
That spotless interior? Great. But what’s going on under the hood? A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can uncover hidden issues that could cost you down the line.
If you want to skip the guesswork, check out our Subaru Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles. Every CPO Subaru undergoes a thorough 152-point inspection and comes with factory-backed coverage, including a limited powertrain warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.
You wouldn’t buy hiking boots without trying them on, and the same goes for your next vehicle. A test drive helps you get a feel for how the car handles, brakes, accelerates, and responds to the road.
At Hicks Family Subaru, we always recommend a full test drive. It’s the only way to know if the car feels right for your daily routine, weekend adventures, or those spur-of-the-moment road trips.
Life moves fast, but big decisions like buying a used car deserve a thoughtful pace. Rushing through without comparing models, checking ownership history, or considering long-term needs often leads to buyer’s remorse.
Our team is here to help without pressure. Whether you want to explore every option or zero in on one vehicle, we give you the space (and answers) to make a decision you feel great about.
Sure, you’ve budgeted for the purchase price, but what about the rest? From insurance and gas to maintenance and repairs, there are long-term expenses to think about. Some older vehicles may look like a deal up front but can be pricey to maintain.
We’ll walk you through everything at Hicks Family Subaru — from fuel economy to service schedules — so you have the full picture, not just the price tag.
We know that buying a used car is more than just picking a vehicle. It’s about peace of mind, reliability, and feeling good about your choice. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you avoid used car buying mistakes and shop with total confidence.Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi today and browse our handpicked selection of used and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Whether you’re trading in, looking to finance, or just starting your search, we’re here to help you make a smart, informed decision.
