Questions to Ask When Buying a Car
If
you are purchasing a vehicle soon, you may be wondering what is
important to know in the process. Asking your salesperson questions
about a vehicle is the best way to find out if it's a great fit for
you. Here are some good questions to ask to stay informed in your
purchase.
Condition
of the Vehicle:
- Did
the vehicle receive a thorough inspection prior to being listed for
sale?
- Is
it a certified pre-owned vehicle? (This means the vehicle has
cleared the manufacturer's certified program, typically less than
five years old and less than 75,000 miles)
- Is
everything in working condition? (This includes power windows,
locks, seats, etc.)
Vehicle History:
- Has
the vehicle ever been in an accident or flood?
- Do
you have a CarFax on this vehicle? (To see maintenance, upkeep,
owner records, airbag records)
- Where
did the vehicle come from? (Was it a former lease vehicle, a
trade-in, new from manufacturer, etc.)
Personal Preferences:
-
Does
the car have a clear title?
- Â What's
left on the factory warranty, and does the dealership offer any
standard warranty?
- Does
your dealership take trade-ins?
- How
many keys and remotes come with the vehicle?
- Can
I take it for a test drive?
Ultimately what you want to find out is that the vehicle is in good working condition, that you won't have any large repairs anytime soon and that you won't have any surprises after you purchase it. All of the above questions both ensure that your car will be a great purchase, and by asking these questions up front, it will protect you in the event that there are any issues to discover.
Your salesperson will not only understand your inquisitiveness but will likely do all they can to help you get the answers that you're looking for. They want you to be happy with your purchase as much as you want to be happy with it! We hope this list of questions helps you in your next vehicle purchase. Happy shopping!