20 questions to ask a used car seller (dealer or private)
The best time to find out about a problem is before you have fallen in love with the car. These questions are short, polite and revealing. Ask them by message before you visit, and again in person.
About the car's history
- Do you have the vehicle history report, and may I see it?
- How many owners has it had?
- Has it been in an accident or had any body repair?
- Is there a lien on the title?
- Is the title clean, with no brand such as salvage, rebuilt or flood?
- Do you have service records, and the owner's manual and both keys?
About its condition
- Are there any known problems or warning lights?
- When were the tires, brakes and battery last replaced?
- What recent repairs or maintenance have been done?
- Does anything on the car not work?
- Has it been smoked in, or driven in floods or heavy salt?
About the sale
- Is the car still available?
- What is the total out-the-door price, in writing, including all fees?
- Why are you selling, or, for a dealer, where did the car come from?
- Is the price negotiable?
- Will you allow an independent mechanic to inspect it?
- Is it sold as is, or does it come with a warranty? What does the Buyers Guide on the car say?
About the paperwork and next steps
- Is the title in your name, and will you have it with you when we complete the sale?
- What paperwork will I receive, and when?
- If financing is involved, can I see the final terms before I take the car home?
Extra questions for a dealer
- Is this car sold as is, and may I see the Buyers Guide posted on it?
- What dealer fees will be on the final paperwork, and which are optional?
- Did you recondition it, and what was done?
- Where did the car come from: a trade-in, an auction or another source?
Extra questions for a private seller
- How long have you owned it, and how did you use it?
- Are you the person named on the title?
- Would you meet at a bank or a public place, and let me bring a mechanic?
- Will you sign a bill of sale?
Pay attention to how they answer
A seller with nothing to hide answers plainly, and is glad you are being careful. Be wary of vague answers, pressure to hurry, refusals to put things in writing, or a story that changes. See used car scams to avoid.
Common questions
Should I ask these questions before visiting?
Yes. Many problems come out in a message or a call, which saves you a trip.
What is a lien?
A claim by a lender on the car until a loan is paid off. A car with a lien cannot be transferred cleanly until the lien is released.
What if a seller refuses to answer?
Treat it as a reason to walk away, or at least to be more careful.
Keep reading
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and prices change and differ by state; check with the right professional or your state agency before you act.