Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car from a Dealership | Essential Guide

Buying a used car from a dealership can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unsure what to look out for.

Asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision, avoid hidden issues, and ensure you’re getting value for your money.

Whether you’re after your first car or upgrading to something a bit more exciting, this guide will walk you through the essential questions to ask when buying a used car from a dealership.

Why Asking Questions is Crucial

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a new (well, new to you!) car.

But the key to a successful purchase lies in the details.

Asking the right questions can reveal important information that might not be immediately obvious.

Dealerships typically offer vehicles in good condition, but they may not volunteer every piece of information unless you ask.

By taking the time to quiz the salesperson, you’ll have the knowledge to avoid nasty surprises down the road and ensure you’re driving away with a reliable car.

Let’s dive into the most critical questions you should be asking.

1. What is the Vehicle’s History?

One of the first questions you should ask is about the car’s history.

A vehicle’s past can tell you a lot about its future.

You’ll want to know how many previous owners it’s had, if it’s been involved in any accidents, and whether there have been any major repairs.

Dealerships often provide a vehicle history report, but it’s essential to ask for it if they don’t.

If the car turns out to be faulty after purchase, you might want to check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK.

2. Has the Vehicle Been Inspected or Certified?

Many dealerships sell certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, which have undergone rigorous inspections.

These cars are often considered more reliable since they meet the manufacturer’s high standards.

Ask if the vehicle you’re interested in has been inspected or certified, and if so, request a copy of the inspection report.

If you’re wondering how much dealerships might reduce the price during negotiations, check out our page on how much a dealership will come down on price.

3. Can I See the Vehicle’s Service History?

A well-maintained car will have a service history that reflects regular oil changes, tyre rotations, and other routine maintenance.

Ask to see this history to verify how well the car has been looked after.

If there are gaps in the service record or long periods without any maintenance, this could be a red flag.

To learn more about servicing at a dealership, check out our page on how long it takes to service a car at a dealership.

4. What is the Current Mileage?

Mileage is a key factor in determining a car’s value and condition.

Cars with high mileage have typically endured more wear and tear, which can mean more frequent repairs in the future.

Ask about the car’s current mileage and compare it to the vehicle’s age.

For example, a car with 60,000 miles on the clock is expected to have been driven about 12,000 miles per year over five years.

If the mileage seems unusually high (or low), this could either signal overuse or underuse, both of which may present their own set of challenges.

5. Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?

Never buy a used car without taking it for a test drive.

This is your chance to see how the car feels and to catch any immediate issues.

Pay attention to how the car handles on the road.

Listen for any unusual noises, check how responsive the brakes are, and make sure the steering feels smooth.

A test drive can often reveal problems that a visual inspection might miss, such as engine misfires, alignment issues, or poor suspension.

6. What Warranty Options Are Available?

Warranties on used cars can vary significantly, so it’s important to know what’s included.

Ask if the car comes with any kind of warranty and what it covers.

Dealerships often offer their own warranties on top of any remaining manufacturer warranties.

If the car you’re interested in is out of warranty, ask if they offer extended warranties for added protection.

This can save you from unexpected repair costs down the road.

7. Are There Any Additional Fees?

While the sticker price might look appealing, it’s crucial to clarify the total cost of buying the car.

Ask if there are any additional fees, such as registration, title transfer, or dealership handling fees.

Some dealerships may also charge for documentation, cleaning, or even inspection costs.

Understanding these fees upfront will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when you sit down to finalise the deal.

For more insight into handling payments at a dealership, check out our page on how to pay for a car at a dealership.

8. Can You Provide a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Report?

A vehicle’s VIN is like its fingerprint.

It can reveal important details about its history, such as recalls, title issues, and whether it’s been stolen.

Ask for the car’s VIN and run it through a vehicle check service.

This will help you verify that the car you’re considering has a clean title and isn’t hiding any potentially serious issues, such as flood damage or rolled-back mileage.

A quick check could save you from buying a car with hidden problems.

9. Are There Any Ongoing Recalls?

Recalls happen when manufacturers discover safety issues with their vehicles, so it’s essential to ask if the car has any unresolved recalls.

If the vehicle is under recall, ask whether the necessary repairs have been completed.

You don’t want to drive off the lot with a car that poses a safety risk.

Most recalls are fixed for free by the manufacturer, but you’ll want to confirm this with the dealership.

10. Do You Offer Financing or Trade-In Options?

If you’re not paying in cash, you’ll likely need to explore financing options.

Ask the dealership what financing they offer and compare it to what you can get from your own bank or credit union.

Sometimes dealership financing can come with lower rates, but it’s always good to shop around.

Also, if you have an existing vehicle, ask if the dealership offers trade-ins and how they value the trade.

This can help lower the overall cost of your new car.

For a guide on paying cash at a dealership, check out our page on how to pay cash for a car at a dealership.

11. Has the Car Ever Been in an Accident?

Even if a vehicle looks pristine, it’s important to ask if it has ever been in an accident.

Accidents can sometimes lead to long-term mechanical issues, even if the car has been repaired.

Knowing the accident history allows you to gauge whether the damage was minor or severe and whether it has affected the car’s performance or resale value.

12. What is the Return Policy or Cooling-Off Period?

Finally, ask if the dealership offers any kind of return policy or cooling-off period.

This can be a lifesaver if you discover something wrong with the car after the sale is complete.

While many dealerships don’t offer returns, some may offer a short period during which you can return the vehicle or exchange it for another.

It’s always better to know your options before signing on the dotted line.

Conclusion: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

When buying a used car, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

But by asking the right questions, you can avoid common pitfalls and make sure you’re making a smart investment.

From checking the vehicle’s history to understanding warranties and asking about accidents, these questions will help you feel confident and informed when making your purchase.

Happy car shopping, and remember—there’s no such thing as too many questions when it comes to buying a used car!

FAQs

What is the most important question to ask when buying a used car?

The most important question is about the vehicle’s history.

This will give you a comprehensive view of any past issues or accidents.

How can I verify the condition of a used car before purchasing?

Ask for a certified inspection report and take the car for a test drive to assess its condition yourself.

What should I avoid when buying a used car from a dealership?

Avoid skipping the vehicle history report, not asking about warranties, and failing to test drive the car.

Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!