In most markets, buying a used car can often be the wisest choice you can make. From saving money to minimizing depreciation, there are a plethora of advantages associated with this practice, which is why many experienced drivers never buy new cars and instead stick to finding the best deals on used vehicles. That being said, it's not always easy to find cars at affordable prices that you can rely on for years to come. By following the five time-tested strategies and tips listed below, however, you'll maximize your odds of finding a true gem, one that can withstand the rigors of time without making that much of a dent in your finances:

1. Identify your car-related needs

It's perfectly normal for people to have different needs and expectations from their vehicles of choice. Some use their cars on their everyday commute, while for others driving is more of a weekend thing. Others still might already have a car and want a second vehicle just in case the first one breaks down. All these things and more should factor in your decision, so make sure you ask yourself questions like the following: Do you want a sturdy car? Or is size and storage capacity most important for you? How about gas mileage? Mark down all your ideal car's features and then rank them in order of priority. This will give you an idea of what's most important to you before you commence your search.

2. Establish a budget

Your preferences may dictate your initial car picks, but it's price that ultimately helps you make that final choice. So begin by establishing a budget for your future vehicle, one that you feel comfortable with and can support either via private funds or through a financially feasible loan. Shy away from fixed sums, since the last thing you want in this scenario is to be overly rigid. Opt instead for a budget range that allows for some flexibility if you happen to come across an amazing deal along the way.

3. Research market prices

An essential step in figuring out how much you're supposed to pay for a car lies in researching the market prices of all your chosen vehicles. You can find plenty of sites that specialize in this sort of thing, but you can also ask your neighborhood mechanic as well. After you've figured out the pricing, try consulting with a reputable used car provider like Australia's Zooper Cars to see what they have in stock. Even if your preferred vehicle is nowhere to be found, you'll still likely find many similar models in the same price range, so make sure you keep an open mind in case an even better deal rears its head.

4. Bring a mechanic along

When it comes to used cars, there are few more capable at picking out the diamonds from the dreck than experienced mechanics. Chances are they've seen it all before and know all the little details that can make or break a vehicle. Be sure to enlist the aid of a mechanic when you set out to see your car picks in person, as they can perform a professional inspection that won't break the bank and may just save you a ton of headaches and bills down the road. They might also have their own suggestions for vehicles in your price range, which you'd do well to at least take into consideration.

5. Take it out for a test drive

The last step in any car-purchasing odyssey, a test drive is the best way to find out if there is any actual chemistry between you and your future car. Any salesman worth is salt will offer you a demo of the car's features while you note the feel of its engine and judge its overall look. If you hear any suspicious noises or if something feels even slightly off, don't be afraid to back out of the deal and look for a different vehicle instead.

And so we've reached the end of our handy guide to finding a reliable used car at a decent price. Remember that hunting for a great vehicle might take some time, so arm yourself with patience and don't hesitate to ask around. You never really know where the best deal might spring from.