Questions To Ask When Buying a Used Car

Buying a car is always nerve-racking, made worse if it’s a used one. There are so many choices out there, and you want to be fully informed before you make your decision, so that you don’t end up buying a car which will soon lose its value.

Here are some questions to ask when buying a used car, so you will set off in the direction of a happy life on the road.

Basic Questions To Ask When Buying a Used Car

Knowing the vehicle’s history may help explain why the car is for sale. Is the seller upgrading, downsizing, or is there something wrong with the car? A non-specific or inconsistent explanation could indicate a problem.

What is the Car’s History?

Order a Carfax or AutoCheck vehicle history report. Things a seller might choose to keep under wraps could show up in the report on previous owners, title status, known accidents, open recalls, repairs and mechanical issues.

How Many Miles are on the Odometer?

The mileage of a car is an important aspect, but it could not be the only aspect that we would need to consider in order to understand how much the car is valued or its expected lifespan. The discussion question is: although a high-mileage car might be problematic, it does not necessarily mean that it is less reliable than the car with the same mileage but on a highway.

Can I See the Car Maintenance Records?

A good car that is well looked after will be more reliable and last longer; so check for service records that show they have had regular servicing, an oil change and any repairs.

Bad maintenance records might be a warning and could even lead to an accident in during which you may need legal assistance.

Has the Car Been in Any Accidents?

Accidents can cause internal damage that might not be apparent on the outside. A car’s history of being in an accident can provide insight into what you may encounter down the line. If the car has previously been in an accident, ask questions about the amount of damage and the quality of repairs.

Are There Any Current Mechanical Issues?

Ask the dealer or previous owner if they know of any mechanical issues. Even something small like a minor rear-end rattle can wind up being a costly repair later on. If possible, take the car to your mechanic to have him test drive it and point out any mechanical problems not readily apparent from the surface.

Is There a Warranty?

Some used cars, especially relatively newer models, may still be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or even come with an extended warranty from the dealer. A warranty will let you know your car is covered if a major part should break during your ownership, which provides a level of security. Be sure to ask what the warranty actually covers.

Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?

To decide whether to buy a car, it is advised that you go for a test drive, to see how it looks, feels and drives, whether its good for long journeys and short journeys. Listen out for any unusual noises, squeaking, vibrations, or beeping at the dashboard. Test how the brakes feel, how the steering and suspension respond to every turn, however slight, make sure that everything is working as it should.

What is the Car’s Fuel Efficiency?

Fuel economy is important if you plan on using the car around town on a daily basis. Ask how many miles per gallon (MPG) the car gets in the city and on the highway, as this will give you a sense of ongoing fuel costs.

What is the Asking Price and Is It Negotiable?

Research similar used models in your vicinity and learn more about your car’s market value from reputable dealers or Car market so you know you’re getting a good price. Always ask if the price is negotiable.

A good dealer considers negotiation the norm, but they won’t be budged if you can’t meet a reasonable bottom line. If the car isn’t right, ambling away sends the message to the seller that they’ll have to come down on their price.

Can I Have the Car Inspected by a Mechanic?

Getting an independent mechanic you trust to check the car can help you get an unbiased rundown of what might be wrong with it, as even a rigorous ‘look over’ can’t reveal much that isn’t visually apparent. If the seller won’t allow you to have it looked over, that’s a red flag.

Are There Any Recalls on the Car?

See if there are any open recalls, which are issued by manufacturers to address safety-related defects. Make sure any recalls are addressed before finalising the purchase.

What is the Car’s Ownership History?

This number of former owners tells you about the degree of hard use and maintenance this car had, bring problems remained unresolved. Obviously, with too many owners in a short period of time, questions about the car’s past may linger. Alternatively, a single-owner car is often in far better condition.

How Long Have You Owned the Car?

A substantial ownership duration is a signal that the seller has been more aware of the state of the car and its history. A longer ownership duration most likely indicates that the seller has been more aware of the car, and more able to report on its performance and maintenance.

Are There Any Modifications?

The car’s performance, safety and insurance will be affected by any modifications to the vehicle. Ask what had been modified and be certain the work was done by a professional. Plus, if the car will go back under warranty or possibly be sold later, you want to know that won’t be affected by the work.

What is Included with the Sale?

Find out what you get in the sale: is it just the car, or do spare keys, floor mats, or other accessories come with it? In other words, knowing what you’re getting can help to put the valuation into perspective.

Can You Provide References?

If you buy from a private seller, ask for contact information from buyers he or she sold the car to before. A long list of happy former owners and glowing recommendations are the next best thing to a sale from a dealership.

Final Words

If you are buying a used car then you have to take proper measures. These questions can help you learn some important facts about the vehicle and understand how good of a decision you should make. Plus, buying a car is quite a commitment and a huge risk.

If you do end up getting injured, whether you were driving the vehicle or not, you could contact an experienced car accident lawyer. This can help you learn about your rights and the laws involved. Good luck with your purchase!