13 Good Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Who loves a gamble? Who loves risking thousands of dollars, hoping you get what you paid for?

 

This can be how it feels every time you buy a car.

 

The truth is, buying a used car is always going to be a bit of an unknown—unless you’ve been a witness to the vehicle’s maintenance schedule, driving time and damage/repair record, you’ll never be 100% sure of its true worth.

 

But you can get close by asking the right questions.

 

Questions to ask yourself

You may think you know exactly what you want, how much you’re willing to pay and where you should buy. However, if you haven't asked yourself these three questions, you may not have all the information you need to make the best decision for you.

 

1. How much work am I willing to do to get a deal?

   Typically, used car buyers choose one of two paths—either spend more money and save time by purchasing from a reputable local dealer, or spend more time and save money by purchasing direct from a local private seller. Which type of person are you? Decide by evaluating your schedule and your willingness to research options. Rarely can one buyer find the unicorn of used cars that is both a good deal and requires minimum time and effort to secure.
    

2. How much can I afford?

   With the cost of new and used vehicles hitting historic highs, you’ll likely pay considerably more this year than you would have last year for the same vehicle. According to Edmunds, the average price for used cars are expected to top $30,000 for the first time at some point in 2022.

    

   If you’re planning to get an auto loan (either direct from the dealer or through your preferred financial institution), make sure you understand the terms of the loan and can accurately evaluate this expense in your budget.
    

     Payment calculator
   
    

   Keep in mind that your monthly payment is not the only cost associated with buying a car. Your insurance costs may be different than they were with your old car since prices are based on make, model, year and other differentiating information. Maintenance and repair costs could also change from what you had in your budget before. Determine your true budget by including all these factors in your buying decision.
    

3. How will I finance my purchase?

   With the inventory shortage we’ve seen in the U.S. over the last couple of years, it’s more important than ever to put your best foot forward when shopping. That means securing financing before you head out to look at cars. It’s an important step that empowers you to negotiate with the seller in the same way as a cash buyer. Focus on negotiating an out-the-door price instead of a specific monthly payment to avoid getting stuck in a bad deal. This also confirms to private sellers that they are working with a motivated buyer.

    

   Shop around for a loan ahead of time to alleviate compromising on a less-than-desirable loan term and investing in a car that may not be as perfect as you think.

 

Questions to ask the internet

Now that the hard part is done—budgets are not always fun—let’s get to the exciting part. Do as much research as you can on the types of vehicles you’re considering, while being open to other possibilities, too. Make a list of the ones you’d like to see. Before you head out the door, these questions may save you from buying a lemon:

 

4. What are common problems with this make and model?

   The internet is a great place to find reviews. Check out the makes and models on your list to see if there are any recurring problems. Then, decide if you’re willing to spend the time and money if those problems come up or if they are a deal breaker. If you find there are too many problems or that the problems are too costly, you may want to take it off your list.
    

5. What is the valuation for this make and model?

   Websites like Kelley Blue Book and NADA Guides offer a range of value for vehicles based on make, model, age, mileage and features. This is valuable information in the negotiation process and can help you start a conversation if you think a vehicle is overpriced.

 

Questions to ask the seller over the phone

At this point, you’re probably anxious to get behind the wheel of some of these cars already. Not so fast! These two questions may save you some time and effort:

 

6. Can you send me a video of the interior and exterior?

   Most everyone has a phone with video capabilities in their pocket. A video that documents the full exterior and interior of the car is a common request these days for both dealers and private sellers. You never know what you may see!
    

7. Can you tell me about any recent maintenance or repairs?

   Obviously, in most cases, a private seller would easily be able to give you this information. When it comes to a dealer, it depends. For example, the vehicle may have come in on a trade very recently and they may not have done their research on its history yet.

    

   You have the power to check these things yourself by pulling the vehicle’s history report from Carfax or Autocheck. This allows you to verify the information you received from the dealer or private seller regarding the maintenance and repairs on the vehicle.
    

8. Can I take the vehicle to my mechanic before I make a final decision?

   The answer should be yes. If you get any other answer, hang up and move on.
    

9. Do you have the title in hand?

   Some experts say there is only one acceptable answer here—yes. No title, no deal. However, many private sellers plan to use the money from the sale to pay off their auto loan. The ideal way to handle this situation would be for the seller and purchaser to meet at the financial institution that holds the lien on the vehicle and complete the transaction there—together.

    

   In some instances, this is not possible. In these cases, it’s essential to have a clear paper trail—fill out a bill of sale and get the seller’s information including name, phone number and copy of valid picture ID. Make note on the bill of sale that the seller will provide the cleared title within a certain time frame.

    

   You can also use an escrow service like escrow.com. These companies are popular with people who purchase cars online, and would work in this scenario, too.
    

10. Is the vehicle returnable within a certain amount of time or miles?

    Some dealerships have a buyer’s remorse clause in the contract that outlines the parameters in which you can return the vehicle if you change your mind. Be sure you understand your options. Private sellers typically don’t offer this, but it never hurts to ask!

 

Questions to ask your mechanic

Once you’ve found a vehicle that you’re interested in, the next step is for a trusted mechanic to give it a look. Over and above checking for the obvious things, here are three specific questions to ask:

 

11. Did the previous owner keep up on the maintenance on the vehicle?

    Poor maintenance on a well-made car can be more dangerous than a mediocre car that was devotedly maintained. Your mechanic will be able to tell whether or not the previous owner has kept up on scheduled maintenance, which can be useful when planning for possible upcoming problems with the car.
     

12. Were quality replacement parts used?

    One car part is not always equal to the next. Depending on the part, using low-quality or cheap replacement parts can put undue strain on the engine or other mechanical parts and can cause unnecessary damage. While your mechanic is not going to examine every part, he will check those which are easy to view. The condition and quality of these replacement parts can be a good indicator for the rest of the vehicle.
     

13. Are there any obvious repairs that are needed in the near future?

    Your mechanic is not a fortune teller but he or she may be able to see wear and tear on a part or parts that need replacement or repair. For instance, smaller things like brake pads, rotors, spark plugs, tires and belts. Or you may find out something bigger is looming—like a new transmission or fuel pump.

 

Looking for more help? Let’s grade the vehicle you’re considering. This detailed used car checklist helps you know what to look for. Every car starts with an “A+” grade—give each inspection point a “✓” or “✗” to see if it truly makes the grade!