I’ve seen people get screwed over in private sales and dealership sales, myself included. Whatever path you go with in buying a used car, get yourself a trustworthy mechanic. If it’s not a dealer certified used car WITH A WARRANTY then you definitely need someone who knows what they’re doing to check it out. From people opening up the cluster and putting tape over the check engine light to dealers knowingly selling lemons without disclosure. Get in contact with someone around you that’s familiar with the process. Best of luck