Tricks to scoring the best 'pre-loved' bargains!

Want to cut costs by buying used versions of items you need, but fear you’ll end up wasting money on duds? Our experts reveal their secrets to spotting the best of everything so you can save, worry-free

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For a reliable used car

You know to get any used vehicle you’re considering checked out by an independent auto technician. But there’s a trick that can help you pick a car with the best chances of lasting: “Look through listings for used vehicles that have lots of mileage,” advises Ivan Drury, automotive insights expert for Edmunds.com. “This is a clue that these are the most reliable makes and models because they’ve lasted so long,” he explains. “Vehicles that are unreliable typically don’t get driven as much since they’re in the shop a lot and people don’t trust them to go long distances.” The average vehicle racks up more than 13,000 miles a year, so just multiply that by the age of the car to figure out how much it’s been driven. “Then look for a similar vehicle that has fewer miles on it.” Based on how far the other versions of it have gone, there’s a good chance you’ll get as many miles out of yours too.

For furniture that lasts