Demand is up, but the supply of used cars is shrinking according to experts, who say now more than ever, it pays for drivers to know what they're getting themselves into.
"Do not go there and spend your money because their cars are no good," said Chris Chisem, a Chiefland resident who wishes he and his wife inspected the 2002 Chevy Tahoe they bought from Val-UCar in Gainesville.
"Don't give up money until you know that that car is good, and is in shape," he said.
Chisem says his truck is in the dealer's shop with "ignition problems."
The GM of Val-UCar says their company policy is making everyone happy.
Mechanic Fred Conkling says before you buy a used- car, take it out for a test drive.
"Turn on the air, use the brakes, go at various speeds- including highway speeds, give it an opportunity to manifest any defects it has, make sure it's not going to overheat," he said.
Conkling also recommends buyers drive the car to a disinterested third-party.
"If they're not willing to let you take it to a mechanic and have it inspected, it's a huge red flag," he said.
There's also a few things that buyers can flag on the lot.
"Inspect the oil for condition, look for any signs of moisture or condensation, it should not look like a chocolate milk shake, it should look like clean oil," he said.

Quick Tips for Used-Car Buyers:
- drive car to "disinterested third party" (your trusted mechanic)
-check the transmission fluid which should be red in color