When I'm not out inspecting used vehicles I enjoy spending my time as a firefighter. One of the many things we do is continually drill (practice our craft). Understanding vehicle construction is helpful but my role as a firefighter gives me a true respect for how strong a vehicle is and how important proper vehicle repairs are when they are damaged. While out inspecting I often see poorly repaired vehicles (mostly salvage) and think back to how that cost savings of knowingly purchasing a vehicle that has sustained some serious damage could end up being a life or death decision for you and your family and a rescue vs recovery for the firefighters that will respond to the next accident.
Remember accidents happen. Nobody gets up in the morning planning on getting into an accident. On top of worrying about the mechanical condition of your next car purchase, please really consider the safety aspects as well. I've always been a stickler for safety. I spent about 4 years in the dealership setting as a specialized Drive-ability, Electronics, Networking and Safety Systems Technician diagnosing and replacing safety systems such as airbags, pre-tensioners and seat belts so I understand better than most how crucial these properly functioning systems are and how intertwined they are with the rest of the vehicle including the structure. There is nothing more dangerous than a car designed with airbags that has been tampered with or has non functioning airbags. Please don't choose cost over safety.
There are plenty of vehicles out there being poorly repaired daily, many around you every time you're out driving. Be educated, do your research on the vehicle and seller, and please don't consider purchasing without having it inspected.
