Buying a used car can be a great way to save money while still meeting your needs for transportation. However, many people avoid buying pre-owned vehicles because of myths or misconceptions. Here are some common myths about buying used cars that you should not buy into. 

1. Buying used means you buy without a warranty.

Some used cars come without a warranty, but many dealers offer cars that are only a few years old that have pristine features and like-new quality. These can have dealer warranties or guarantees. You can also purchase after-market warranties with a used car purchase that protect you from the high cost of engine repairs or drive train break downs. 

2. Buying used always means increased costs for vehicle maintenance.

Not all used cars are created equal. You should research the make, model, and year of the car you hope to buy, reading reviews and customer reports on the car. That's actually a good thing about getting a pre-owned vehicle: you can read reports about the car itself and see how happy other people have been with its performance. 

Some cars have a reputation for lasting a long time, even as the miles rack up and the years pass by. Brands such as used Hondas often have plenty of life left and good consumer reviews. 

3. You can never know the history of the vehicle you are buying. 

Many dealerships offer the total repair history of a car, especially if the vehicle is certified pre-owned. Certified vehicles won't have damaging accident history or salvage titles. You'll also be able to see the maintenance record, including oil changes and new tires and rotations. You can be sure the car was well taken care of before you buy it. 

4. Used cars cost more to insure because they have fewer safety features.

Insurance costs vary greatly based on a variety of factors, including your own driving record and vehicle statistics. However, newer cars can cost more to insure just because the replacement cost of the vehicle is higher. You might be better off getting a vehicle that is a few years old. It will still have more modern safety features, but it will also cost less up front, which can mean reduced insurance prices for you. If you are worried about insurance, contact your provider before buying to ask about the makes and models you are interested in.