If you’re planning on buying a used car – check this stuff first..

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Used car inventory is on the rise – which means it’s a pretty good time to buy one...  

However, even the vehicles with the best resale reputations can have a lemon among them. Consumer reports has a few things you MUST check before driving it home:

• Check for collision repair. Look for mismatched body panels, a door hood or trunk that doesn’t close properly, or any traces of paint overspray on chrome or rubber trim.

• Beware of flood damage. A moldy or mildew smell, discolored carpeting, or intermittent electrical problems are all red flags.

• Check the fluids: Wet spots in the engine compartment or under the car can indicate leaking oil or fluids which can be expensive problems.

• Inspect the smoke. If the tailpipe emits blue smoke after the car has warmed up, the engine may be burning oil which is a really bad sign.

• Floor it. While driving, when you give the car the gas, listen for excessive revving or knocks and pings while accelerating. That could be a damaged transmission.