Shopping for a used car can provide a lot of opportunities for buyers looking for value, but these motorists have to be aware of some common mistakes that can disrupt the process. These blunders can occur at any point in the search and selection of pre-owned vehicles, so drivers should pay attention to how they conduct the business transaction. 

"Buying a car is something people usually only do at most every few years, so naturally the right way to go about it isn't always top of mind," said Brian Moody, the site editor of AutoTrader.com. "But a misstep during the shopping process could turn a great deal into a money pit in the long run." 

One concept to keep in mind is that you should compile a list of the features you need and stick to it. The overwhelming amount of options available at a used car lot can cause you to consider special packages or amenities that are unnecessary, which could drive up the cost. Having a concrete list of what you want will help to keep you focused throughout the shopping experience. 

Drivers should also be sure to take the vehicle in for a mechanical inspection. A vehicle may run beautifully during a test drive but still have some issues under the hood. Having a professional take a look at the inner workings of a used car is essential for planning out future maintenance and making sure there no surprises in store. 

You can find a great used car shopping experience at NJ State Auto Auction. The auction lot is filled with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, any of which can offer great value for drivers.