And try to buy private party through craigslist or something if you can. You will save a ton by skipping taxes, dealer fee, crap like that.

To get rid of the risk of buying private party, have the guy bring the car to your favorite mechanic. He'll charge you 50-75 bucks or whatever for an inspection that is probably better than what the scumbag used car dealers will do for you when you buy it from their lot. Then whatever he finds, deduct from the price of the car.

If people won't meet you at your mechanic, then they are hiding something. If you do end up buying from a used car lot, when you test drive it ask if you can take it to your mechanic. The dealer should have no problem with that. If they do, they are hiding something.