Questions to ask the seller of a used car
Asking the right questions saves you wasted trips and, above all, bad purchases. Ask the first ones by phone or message before you go see the car, and write down the answers: if something doesn’t match later, that’s a sign.
At the end of every result from our VIN check there’s a short, printable version of this list.
Before you go see it
1. Can you send me the VIN? If they won’t share it, be suspicious. With the VIN you can check the model, recalls and theft records.
2. Is the title in your name? Ideally the seller is the owner shown on the title. If they’re “selling it for a friend” or the title is in someone else’s name, the transfer gets complicated and the risk goes up.
3. Is the title clean or does it have a brand? Salvage, rebuilt, flood or junk brands change the value a lot. See our guide on branded titles.
4. Is there an outstanding loan (lien)? If a lender is on the title, you need a lien release to transfer it.
5. Why are you selling it? There’s no right answer, but a story that changes or doesn’t make sense is a bad sign.
About its history
6. Has it been in an accident? Where was it repaired? Ask for the shop invoices. A well-repaired accident isn’t always a problem; a hidden one is.
7. How many owners has it had? Has it always been in this state? A car that came from an area hit by hurricanes or floods deserves an extra check.
8. Did you use it for Uber, Lyft, taxi or delivery? Those cars pile up miles and wear quickly.
9. Do you have maintenance records? Oil changes, brakes, timing belt, transmission. Compare the mileage on the invoices with the dashboard.
10. Were the recalls done? Ask for the dealer receipt. And confirm it yourself with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
About its current condition
11. Are any warning lights on? (engine, ABS, air bag)
12. What repairs does it need right now? An honest seller usually mentions them.
13. How old are the tires and battery?
14. Does it need to pass a safety or emissions inspection to be registered? It depends on the state.
The most important question
15. Can I take it to a mechanic I trust for an inspection? If the answer is “no”, don’t buy. A seller with nothing to hide doesn’t mind an inspection.
If you’re buying from a dealer
- Look at the Buyers Guide on the window: it says whether the car is sold “As Is – No Dealer Warranty” or with a warranty. According to the FTC, the Buyers Guide overrides the contract.
- Ask for the out-the-door price (including taxes and fees) in writing.
- Ask which add-ons are included in the price and decline the ones you don’t want.
Documents you should receive
- The title signed over to you (or your state’s transfer form).
- Odometer disclosure statement.
- Bill of sale with date, price, VIN and both parties’ details.
- Lien release, if there was a loan.
- Maintenance records and all available keys.
Frequently asked questions
What is the "Buyers Guide" on used car windows?
It is a label the FTC requires dealers to post on every used car for sale. It says whether the car is sold "as is" (no dealer warranty) or with a warranty, and it overrides the sales contract. Private sellers do not have to use it.
What if the seller promises something verbally?
Get it in writing. Verbal promises are very hard to enforce later.