What to Ask When Buying a Used Car: 5 Key Questions

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car: 5 Key Questions

If you’re on the market for a used car, chances are you’ve already begun to research the makes and models you are interested in. Finding the perfect model to meet your needs is important.

When the time comes to see the vehicle of your choice in person, it’s just as important to ask the seller the right questions to ensure you are making the smartest choice.

We’ve listed below the top 5 key questions to ask your seller before purchasing your vehicle.

1. Has the vehicle been involved in an accident, and does it have a clear title?

After you’ve seen the vehicle you wish to purchase in person, it is vital that you find out whether or not it has been involved in an accident before committing to purchase. Ask the seller for every bit of information they know about the history of the vehicle, and ask for an accident report if there is one. You can also check websites like CarFax and AutoCheck to verify. Make sure that the vehicle does not have a salvage or damaged title. If the vehicle has been involved in an accident, it may have been repaired with aftermarket parts that don’t have the same quality as the originals. Airbags are also a major consideration if the vehicle has sustained previous damage. Make sure any new airbags were installed by an authorized repair shop with only authorized factory air bags.

You shouldn’t necessarily pass on a vehicle that’s been in a minor fender bender, but you should seriously reconsider purchasing one that’s been involved in a major accident.

2. What is the title status?

When it comes to a vehicle’s title, there are three key factors: the title must be clear (not a salvage title), the vehicle is registered in the seller’s name, and the seller has the title physically

in hand ready to sign over to the new owner. You never want a title with any liens on it, and you certainly don’t want any run around about who has the title or where it is.

A salvage title means the insurance company concluded there was more damage to the vehicle than what it is worth. This is a red flag because it means it sustained serious enough damage that it was found to be irreparable. You ​can ​legally purchase a vehicle with a salvage title, but keep in mind that a salvage title is permanent and greatly decreases the value of your vehicle.

3. How many previous owners?

You ultimately want to purchase a used vehicle with a very limited amount of previous owners. If the vehicle has been through a lot of owners, this can be a red flag (depending on the age of the vehicle). It may have recurring mechanical issues that have been passed from one owner to the next, or it may require expensive upkeep. Multiple owners may also equal subpar maintenance, missed service work, or no service records at all.

4. Do you have maintenance records?

A vehicle that has been well cared for will most likely have at least some record of maintenance.

The most common services you should look for records of are oil changes, scheduled tune-ups, brake pad replacement, new tires and tire rotations, and fluid changes. Purchasing ​used cars in ga comes with a lot less surprises and hidden issues if the vehicle has a good maintenance history record.

5. Can I take the vehicle for a mechanical inspection?

This question should be asked only after you’ve made the decision to purchase. If the seller agrees and you are willing to pay for it, you should take the vehicle to a third party service shop for mechanical inspection. Keep in mind though, the seller may not want to hold the vehicle for several days while you wait for an inspection to be scheduled. If you have a service shop that you already have an established relationship with, it may be a good idea to let them know in advance that you may be bringing in a vehicle for inspection.

You can also do a local search for mobile mechanic services. It’s important to note, however, that many of these type service providers include fine print in their contracts that protect them from liability if something turns out to be wrong with the vehicle after they have inspected it.

When buying any type of used vehicle or ​used classic cars​, test driving the seller is just as important as test driving the car. Thoroughly question the seller to learn as much as possible before committing to purchase. If what the seller says - or doesn’t say - doesn’t feel quite right to you, then it may be best to move on.

Savannah Pennysaver is the perfect place to purchase Used Classic Cars for Sale in Georgia.

Their website offers a practical online buying and selling network where individuals are able to post ads of Used vehicles that reach buyers across the country. Compare the price, value, and age between hundreds of cars at a glance to find the best deals and make the best choices when choosing the car of your dreams. Visit the website today!