Buying a used car can be pretty simple and straightforward, so long as you know exactly which questions to ask when buying a used car and how to streamline the process as much as possible.
Remember, used car salesman are professionals at what they do, and spend day after day after day honing their skills and sharpening their experience. When you go into a used car buying situation armed with all of the right questions to ask when buying a used car, you’re not only going to help them do their job much more effectively and efficiently but you’re also going to be able to guarantee you get the kind of deal (car) you’re looking for.
Here are just some of the most important questions to ask when buying a used car.
Are there any major or minor issues with the car I need to be aware of?
This seems like maybe the most obvious of all the questions to ask when buying a used car, but you would be surprised at the amount of people that do not inquire about the major or minor issues that the vehicle may have before they sign of the dotted line.
Often times, used car dealerships (private salesman) will do everything they can to polish up the vehicle and make it look almost brand-new – hiding imperfections and problems until it’s too late. Asking them about major or minor issues right off the bat give you the protection you need moving forward.
Do you have service records, maintenance records, or repair records?
Another of the more critical questions to ask when buying a used car, you need to make sure you get your hands on service records, maintenance records, and repair records if they are available – and inquire as to why they may not be. This will tell you a lot about whether or not you want to buy the car or walk away.
Can you show me the Carfax?
Those commercials for Carfax are famous for their cartoon fox and the funny positions and scenarios that he is placed in, but this is a critical aspect of buying used cars today. Without a Carfax, you might not feel comfortable pulling the trigger on a purchase – and who could blame you?
Who was the previous owner and why are you selling the car?
One of the best questions to ask when buying a used car (even if a used car dealership is selling the automobile), you’ll be able to determine a lot about the overall condition in life of the used car if you know a little bit about the previous owner and why it is being sold. This is definitely something that you need to ask.
Can I take it for an overnight test drive?
Some dealerships are going to be comfortable with allowing you to take the used car overnight whereas others may not be so excited at the prospect, but it’s one of those questions to ask when buying a used car that might “make or break” the sale. You’ll be able to figure out just how perfectly (or imperfectly) this car fits into your everyday and daily routine before you commit to a major amount of money.
How firm is that price tag?
Obviously, you’re going to want to get the very best price you can for the used car, and you won’t be able to do so until you ask that this critical question.
One of the most important questions to ask when buying a used car, you have to understand the negotiating is just a part of the game, and if you are smart and savvy about it can result in some pretty serious savings.