Many car buyers buy used luxury cars because of the relative bargain they provide compared to a new luxury vehicle only to find substantial repair and maintenance costs. That simple ignition switch could turn in $500 if you're not careful. So, how does one buy affordable luxury while avoiding the perils of the money pit?

It's called "luxury" for a reason, and most often you either pay now, or pay later. Being informed and aware of exactly what is involved can lessen the sticker shock that comes with repairs. It just might be that a few thousand now saves a few thousand later.

You can lessen the chances of high costs with some basic knowledge of the luxury market. For example, German luxury often costs more than Japanese - about 25-30%. But on the other hand an oil change in a German vehicle can cost $130-$140 and a 60,000 mile service can climb as much as twice that of a domestic vehicle.

Mechanics will tell you: there's no mechanical reason why a Mercedes is harder to repair than a domestic budget car. Often, luxury dealerships recoup the profit margin they gave away in the showroom in the service department. There are certainly some legitimately higher costs in luxury cars, but many of the other reasons, like sophisticated electronics, are less a factor because all cars have sophisticated electronics these days. So, how do you avoid the pitfalls?

Shop around just like you do for anything else. Call your Auto Advisor and get all the available information on that make and model, its quality, track record, performance. Ask about repair costs, insurance costs, and other factors.

Don't forget some other factors:

• Find out if it was a leased vehicle: It might be a risk to buy a car that's been leased because many are not given the same attention as a car that is owned and the maintenance is intermittent.
• Find out if it has been certified by the manufacturer. Certification means that the car has passed a series of quality tests imposed by the manufacturer and is given additional warranties.
• Find out the last time the car was thoroughly inspected and taken to a mechanic.
• Check the car through the national registry - get the VIN number and check for salvage history and more.
• Get vehicle maintenance records if you're buying from a private owner.