Buying a Used Car? Always Ask These 10 Questions First

It pays to be financially savvy when you are making a significant purchase like buying a car. A great way of achieving that aim would be to purchase a used car. It’s a win-win, as you get a reliable vehicle but often pay significantly less than the cost of the same model at first registration.

If you head to a used car dealership, you are bound to find a vehicle that takes your eye and appeals on price, as well as looks. Before you agree to do the deal and buy the car, it makes sense to ask some highly relevant questions. The answers you get will help determine whether you have found the right car, and the right deal.

Here are 10 essential questions to ask when buying a used car to help confirm you’re making a smart investment.

Why Is the Car Being Sold?

It helps to know how the car came to be available for sale through a dealership. It may be straightforward enough, such as the previous owner used the vehicle as a part-exchange option to get another model, or there could be any number of other reasons.

It makes sense to learn some background on the car, in general, so that you can be reassured that the reason it is being sold is entirely simple, and there are no hidden issues to cause concern.

Can I See the Vehicle History Report?

The next question to ask is whether you can see a vehicle history report. This may be provided free of charge by the dealer, or you might want to use a service like Carfax or AutoCheck, for an independent report.

What you want is a detailed record of the car’s past. This report can also reveal whether the car has been in accidents, suffered flood damage, or has a history of frequent repairs. It’s a critical tool for understanding the car’s background.

Has the Car Been in Any Accidents?

You really need to know the answer to this question. More often than not, the car you want to buy will not have been involved in any accident.

Remember, even if the vehicle history report is clean, it’s still worth asking the seller directly about any past accidents. Minor accidents may not significantly impact the car’s performance, but severe damage can lead to ongoing mechanical problems.

The bottom line is that you want that reassurance before carrying on with the purchasing process.

Can I See Maintenance and Service Records?

Regular maintenance is essential for a car’s overall performance, and longevity. Seeing maintenance records can tell you a lot about how well the car has been cared for. Look for consistent oil changes, brake replacements, tire rotations, and other routine services.

A well-documented service history is a positive sign that the car has been properly maintained.

How Many Miles Are on the Odometer?

Mileage is one of the key factors in determining a used car’s value and potential remaining lifespan. Generally, a lower mileage is preferable, but higher mileage isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, especially if the car has been well-maintained.

A good tip would be to consider the car’s age in relation to its mileage. For example, a five-year-old car with 100,000 miles might be more worn than a ten-year-old car with 60,000 miles.

Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?

It should go without saying that a test drive is crucial for evaluating a used car’s performance and comfort. During the test drive, as well as noting how comfortable you feel in the driving position, you should pay attention to how the car handles. Look out for any unusual noises, and note how well the brakes and acceleration respond.

A test drive is standard practice in any car purchase routine. Your dealer or seller should be more than happy to let you take the car out, even if they want you to be supervised during the test drive.

Will You Allow an Independent Inspection?

An independent inspection by a trusted mechanic can uncover issues that may not be immediately obvious. A reputable dealership will agree to an independent inspection, or they may offer to provide a vehicle condition report.

You may have to cover the cost of the inspection yourself, especially if it’s an independent inspection, but it could be money well spent, as you will get a clear indication of the overall condition of the car you want to buy.

Are There Any Known Mechanical Issues?

You would hope the answer to this question would be no, but It’s crucial to ask if there are any existing mechanical problems. Some issues, like minor wear and tear, are expected in a used car, but major issues could result in costly repairs down the road.

It doesn’t do any harm to confirm that the car is being sold with no known mechanical issues. You could even ask the dealership about a warranty for added protection and peace of mind.

What Is the Current Condition of the Tires?

You can probably answer this question yourself with a visual inspection. It’s relevant to know, as tires are a significant part of any vehicle’s safety and performance.

Bear in mind that uneven tire wear could also signal alignment issues, which may require additional repairs.

Is the Price Negotiable?

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to ask if the asking price is negotiable. The sticker price is often open to some sort of negotiation, especially if you can point out any minor issues that need repair or additional maintenance requirements.

You will discover that buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it’s essential to go into the purchasing process well-informed. Asking these pertinent questions will help lead you to a car that is great value for money and will serve you well.

Buying from a reputable dealership can also improve your chances of securing a car that has been well maintained and being sold at a fair price. You also get the added peace of mind that you might be able to negotiate a warranty that you can fall back on, for added reassurance.