Don’t Ignore These 5 Red Flags When Buying A Used Car

Car Inspections

Used Car Inspection Near Me — 5 Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center in Pflugerville shares must-check used car inspection tips

Used car inspections are a must! Buying a used car is kind of like dating. You’re swiping through listings, reading profiles (okay, Carfax reports), and test-driving a few until you find “the one.” Everything looks perfect — shiny paint, great mileage, maybe even leather seats. You’re excited and ready to commit. But before you lock in for a long-term relationship, remember this: there are always red flags when buying a used car that you don’t want to miss.

At AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center, we’ve seen it all — from “too good to be true” deals to cars that needed major repairs days after purchase. If you’re searching for a used car inspection near me, here are the top 5 things we always tell our customers to check before saying “I do.”

1. The Cooling System (It’s the Car’s Emotional Support System)

The cooling system is your car’s built-in temperature control. Seeing coolant under the hood isn’t enough — you’ll want a pressure test for leaks and to know when the last flush was done. If this system fails, repairs can get expensive fast.

👉 Tip: Make sure your pre-purchase car inspection includes a full cooling system test.

For more details, check our Cooling System Repair page.

2. Get Under the Car (This Is Where the Secrets Live)

If you really want to know the truth, look underneath. Rust, leaks, damaged suspension — these are common warning signs. It’s okay if a car has minor wear, but big issues could mean big bills. Most shops (including ours) will lift the vehicle for you as part of a car inspection in Pflugerville.

👉 Add this to your used car buying checklist — it’s the easiest way to avoid “surprises” after you buy.

3. Tires Tell a Story

Tires are like a diary of how the car’s been driven. Inner-edge wear means alignment issues, while bald spots could mean worn shocks or struts. Cracked sidewalls? That’s aging rubber waiting to blow.
During your used car inspection near me, ask your technician to check tire tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns.

4. The Electrical System (Relationship Status: It’s Complicated)

Modern cars are full of sensors, computers, and wiring. They’re convenient — until they’re not. Flickering lights, random warning icons, or slow starts could mean bigger electrical issues.

During your pre-purchase car inspection, have a shop scan the car for error codes. Electrical repairs can be costly, but catching them early helps.

Learn more on our Electrical System Repair page.

5. The A/C System (Because Consistency Matters)

Texas heat is no joke. If your A/C only blows “kinda cool,” it’s not a small issue. Low refrigerant, a bad compressor, or a leak can cost hundreds to fix — especially with the new 1234yf refrigerant. Always test the A/C, even in winter.

👉 Add this to your used car buying tips list — no one wants a lukewarm relationship with their car!

See our A/C Repair page for details.

Before You Buy: Get a Professional Used Car Inspection

Before committing, invest in a used car inspection near me from a trusted local shop. Most inspections cost between $75 and $200 — a small price to avoid a big mistake.
If a seller won’t let you get an inspection, that’s the biggest red flag of all. 🚩

At AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center, we provide full car inspection in Pflugerville for used cars and trucks. Our ASE-certified techs check cooling, brakes, suspension, electrical, and A/C — so you can buy with confidence.

👉 Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363
or
👉 Book a pre-purchase car inspection online before you sign on the dotted line.

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Inspection,Pre-Purchase Inspection,Used Car Buying
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FAQ

frequently asked questions

The best way to know what to check before buying a used car is to schedule a pre-purchase car inspection with a professional shop.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day used car inspection near me in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto TX.

A typical pre-purchase car inspection costs $75–$200, depending on the vehicle. It’s the smartest way to avoid costly surprises.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day pre-purchase car inspection in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto TX.

A used car inspection near me helps uncover hidden damage or safety issues before you buy — saving you from expensive repairs later.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day used car inspection in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto TX.

Electrical issues, worn tires, and A/C problems are major red flags when buying a used car. Always have them checked first.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day used car inspection near me in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto TX.

Visit AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center for a thorough car inspection in Pflugerville before you purchase your next used car.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day used car inspection in Round Rock, Pflugerville, and Hutto TX.

Follow these used car buying tips: check tires, test the A/C, inspect for leaks, and always get a used car inspection near me before finalizing the sale.

Call AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center today at (737) 358-4363 or book online for fast, same-day used car inspection in Hutto, Pflugerville, and Round Rock, TX.

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Don’t let your tiny issue grow to become a bigger one. We’re here to help and we’re just a phone call away! For questions, quotes, or to book an appointment simply give us a call today or click the button below. We look forward to hearing from you, and we are ready to help however we can!

Give us a call at (737) 358-4363 or book online.

Fast, Friendly & Affordable Vehicle Repair

our family of Certified Vehicle Repair Experts

We are a one-stop shop for all of your automotive repair needs. We service everything from cars, SUVs, trailers, and diesel trucks to commercial fleets. Although major repairs may take 1 to 2 days, most customers in and out the same-day. 

You’re welcome to wait in our clean and comfortable waiting area. We have Wi-Fi that you’re welcome to connect your devices to while you wait. Otherwise, our team offers a complimentary shuttle service to your home or place of work (within a 15-mile radius for most appointments) while we’re working our magic in the shop.

We’re local. We’re here in Pflugerville. For fast, same-day auto repair in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto TX,  give us a call at (737) 399-2612 or book online today!

Areas We Serve

Located off Gattis School Road near Toll 130, AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center provides trusted auto repair for drivers from Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto, TX. We’re proud to be your convenient neighborhood shop for complete car and truck care.

Auto Repair In Pflugerville, TX

Auto Repair in Pflugerville, TX

Located right here in Pflugerville, we are your trusted one-stop shop for cars, truck & fleets. From oil changes and brake repair to diagnostics and A/C service, our certified technicians deliver fast, reliable work backed by honest customer care.
Auto Repair in Round Rock, TX

Auto Repair In Round Rock, TX

Conveniently located near Round Rock — right off Gattis School Road by Dearing Elementary — we make it easy to get dealership-quality repairs without the dealership cost. From transmission work to routine inspections, we help Round Rock drivers stay safe and road-ready.
Auto Repair In Hutto, TX

Auto Repair in Hutto, TX

Right behind the Hutto H-E-B off Gattis School Road near Toll 130, we are the nearby shop you can trust for car and truck repair. We make it easy for Hutto drivers to get quality automotive and diesel service with fast turnaround and fair pricing. Our owners are from Hutto. GO HIPPOS!

experience the difference: AFS truck & auto repair center for Your Car Repairs

  • Certified Technicians

  • Family-Owned & Local Since 2020

  • 24 Month / 24,000 Mile Warranty

  • Convenient Pflugerville, TX Location.  One block off Gattis School Road in Round Rock, TX and just behind the Hutto, TX HEB.

  • Shuttle services to and from home/work within 15 miles

  • Financing options available

Make an Appointment

Have questions or need to schedule auto repair? Our team at AFS Truck & Auto Repair Center is here to help with fast, friendly service for drivers in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Hutto, TX. Call us, visit our shop, or fill out the form below and we’ll get your car back on the road safely and reliably.

afs truck & auto repair center