For those looking at buying a used car in New York or New Jersey, the better business bureau in neighboring Connecticut has offered some guidelines in making the right choice for a purchase.

While a computer can help make the process easier, even offline work could lead to a more-informed purchase, including talking to friends and family about experiences with various cars and trucks.

Many local libraries have copies of the National Automotive Dealers Association Official Used Car Guide, and other resources include print versions of Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, which help potential buyers understand what prices they can expect to pay for different makes and models.

“Buying a used vehicle requires homework and planning to ensure that an attractively-priced used car or truck doesn’t have hidden problems that can turn it into a very costly investment in the long run,” says Paulette Scarpetti, Connecticut Better Business Bureau president.

Another hidden cost may be repairs based on recall announcements from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; interested buyers can call a toll-free number or visit the government organization’s website.

Find used cars in New York with New Jersey State Auto