In the modern Internet enabled world finding cheap used cars is easier than it's ever been. Car prices can be compared, features examined, even purchases made on sites like eBay motors and independent car sites. Avoid the sucker bets by keeping a few things in mind.

The first thing to remember is that just because something is online doesn't mean it's true. People often rely too much on the information in media such as television and the Internet. Not everything on the radio or television is true. The Internet isn't an exception. People can write anything, promise anything, and with some of the tools available they can even create convincing photos and video out of thin air. Unscrupulous individuals flock to the web. But now the buyer can't see their cheap suit, smell their cheap cologne, or get a glimpse of the bad condition of the cars or the facility. Programs such as Photoshop allow dings and dents to be taken out of car images. And all too often people purchase used cars online, as is, without taking any of the usual used car buying precautions. Not everyone is dishonest, but be careful.

Let a good mechanic look at a used car before the purchase. That means driving the car to a garage. If the whole transaction is made remotely, ask a mechanic to inspect it in your absence. Many mechanics offer a remote inspection service. Never rely on the word of the dealer. An independent opinion is best. For under $50 you can avoid problems that could cost thousands, including the money spent on the used car purchase price.

Purchase the used car on price, not on payments. Force the salesman to reveal the price, not just your monthly installments. Do not use the dealers' finance company, either, because that's another way for them to add in extra that pushes up the real price of the used car. Pay cash or find your own loan. And when you pay cash, demand a discount.

Cheap used cars are a reality. There are a lot of modern tools to aid in their purchase. But it's true for used cars just as it is for anything, if a deal looks too good to be true it is.