Before meeting the seller, request the to perform due diligence.

: Texas titles are typically blue; a brown title indicates a certified copy, while other colors may denote salvage or "parts only" status. 2. Conduct a Thorough Inspection Meet in a public, well-lit location and never go alone.

To legally transfer the car into your name, you obtain specific documents from the seller at the time of payment. Never walk away from a sale without the title. Buying or Selling a Vehicle | TxDMV.gov

: Check for mismatched paint or uneven body panel gaps, which can indicate previous accidents.

: Use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) via the TxDMV Title Check tool to ensure the title is "clean" and free of salvage or flood damage history.

: Hire a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI). They can identify hidden mechanical issues or flood damage that may not appear on a history report.