Buying a Used Car? Here’s How to Find a Subaru You Can Count On

Shopping for a used car? Learn what to look for, what to avoid, and what to ask—so you can drive away with confidence.

Buying a used car should feel good. Like hiking the perfect trail or finding just the right car camping spot, it’s all about knowing what to look for and being prepared. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a busy parent, or a pet-loving road tripper, the right pre-owned vehicle can be a dependable partner for all of life’s adventures.

Confidence starts with clarity. This guide gives you a straightforward buying used car checklist, including what to avoid and what to ask before you sign anything. Let’s help you find a vehicle that’s as ready for life as you are.

Buying Used Car Checklist to Follow

1. Define What Matters Most to You

Before you start scanning used car listings or walking the lot, take a moment to think about how your next vehicle needs to fit into your life. Maybe you’re looking for something fuel-efficient for long commutes, or you need extra space for kids, pets, and gear. If you love heading off the beaten path, all-wheel drive and extra ground clearance might be non-negotiable. 

This is your chance to get clear on your priorities—what matters most for your lifestyle, your daily routine, and your future plans. When you know what you’re really looking for, it becomes much easier to recognize the right fit when you see it. And when you shop with clarity, you shop with confidence.

2. Decide Where You’re Buying From

When it comes to used cars, where you buy matters just as much as what you buy. While private sellers might offer tempting price tags, they typically don’t come with the peace of mind that a dealership can provide. At Hicks Family Subaru, we go the extra mile to make sure every vehicle on our lot meets high standards. That means detailed inspections, full vehicle history reports, and a team that stands behind what we sell.

Our Certified Pre-Owned Subaru vehicles are backed by factory warranties and have passed a rigorous 152-point inspection, so you know you’re getting a vehicle that’s been thoroughly vetted. We also offer financing options tailored to your budget and expert guidance to make the process as smooth as possible. Plus, when you choose to shop with a local dealership like ours, you’re not just buying a car—you’re joining a community that puts trust, transparency, and long-term support first.

3. Take a Careful Look at the Exterior

The outside of a vehicle can tell you a lot about how it’s been treated. Here’s what to check:

• Paint and body panels: Look for signs of rust, dents, dings, or mismatched paint.
  Tires: Uneven wear may point to alignment issues or suspension problems.
• Lights and mirrors: Make sure headlights, taillights, and side mirrors are crack-free and fully operational.
• Roof and undercarriage: Especially on SUVs and outdoor-ready vehicles, check for rust, scratches, or damage that might have happened off-road.
  

4. Get Inside the Vehicle

You’ll spend a lot of time here—make sure it feels right. What to look for in used cars on the inside:

• Seat and fabric condition: Check for rips, stains, or excessive wear.
• Smell: A musty or smoky odor may indicate hidden damage.
• Controls and electronics: Test everything—AC, heat, infotainment, seat adjustments, power windows, and locks.
• Odometer reading: Does the mileage align with the vehicle’s age and condition?

You’re looking for signs of care—or neglect. The inside of a car often reflects how it’s been treated overall.

5. Don’t Forget What’s Underneath

This part’s easy to overlook but can save you major headaches later.

• Leaks: Check under the car for oil, coolant, or other car fluids.
• Tailpipe: Excessively sooty or oily residue can be a red flag.
• Suspension and undercarriage: Look for rust or signs of damage, especially if the vehicle was used for off-road driving.

If you’re unsure about what you’re seeing, ask a trusted mechanic or request a pre-purchase inspection.

6. Drive It Like You Mean It

You wouldn’t buy hiking boots without walking in them, right? A test drive is essential—and it should be more than just a loop around the block.

Here’s what to pay attention to:

• How does the vehicle accelerate and brake?
• Do you hear any unusual noises?
• Does the steering feel tight and responsive?
• Is the ride smooth across bumps, turns, and various surfaces?
  

And trust your instincts. If something feels off, ask questions or walk away. A test drive should inspire confidence.

Avoid the Pitfalls: What Not to Overlook

Not all red flags are obvious—but some are hard to miss. Here’s what to avoid when buying a used car:

• No maintenance history or service records
• Sellers unwilling to let you take the car for inspection
• Flood or frame damage (check for rust in odd places, water stains, or musty smells)
• Prices that seem too good to be true
• Pressure to buy quickly or skip steps

Avoiding these pitfalls can help you avoid hidden costs—and headaches—down the road.

What Should I Ask When Buying a Used Car?

You don’t have to be a mechanic to ask smart questions. Here are a few we recommend:

• What’s the vehicle’s history? Any accidents or major repairs?
• Has the car been regularly maintained?
• Is this a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, and what does that include?
• Is there a warranty? If so, what does it cover?
• Are there any open recalls?
• Can I see the CARFAX report?
• Has the vehicle ever been smoked in or had pets?

Why Buy a Used Vehicle from Hicks Family Subaru?

At Hicks Family Subaru, we’re not just focused on selling you a car—we’re committed to helping you find the right fit for your lifestyle and making sure you feel good about your purchase long after you leave the lot. Every Certified Pre-Owned Subaru in our inventory has passed a rigorous inspection process and meets Subaru’s high standards. We believe in being upfront, which means no guesswork, no hidden details—just access to vehicle history reports so you know exactly what you’re getting.

When you shop with us, you’ll work with a friendly, knowledgeable team that understands what matters most to Subaru drivers. Whether you’re interested in financing options, have questions about trade-in value, or want a service team you can rely on for the long haul, we’re here for you. And because we’re part of the Corpus Christi and Robstown communities, you’re not just buying from a dealership—you’re buying from neighbors who care.

Come by Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi and explore our lineup of dependable used and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Whether you’re upgrading your current ride or buying your first Subaru, we’ll make the process clear, pressure-free, and tailored to you.

Stop by for a test drive, schedule a vehicle service, or ask us about trade-in options. We’re here to help you move forward—on your terms.