Buying a Used Car FAQs

Q. How do I begin?

A. The best way to start your used car buying journey is to take the time to do your homework. This entails researching which types of cars are currently being sold in your area and tracking down the ones that fit best with your specific priorities and preferences. Edmunds offers a used car inventory page on their website that lets you narrow down your options according to mileage, price, features, and how close the dealership is to your home.  

Q. Should I request a vehicle history report once I have a car picked out?

A. A vehicle history report is vital to ensuring that you choose a quality automobile. It allows you to find out how many owners a car has had, the number of accidents it has been involved in, its mileage, and more. All you’ll need is the VIN (vehicle identification number). CARFAX® and AutoCheck® are common sources for vehicle history reports.

Q. What should I watch out for during a test drive?

A. When you’re taking each of your top candidates for a spin for the first time, there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind. For instance, make sure the cabin supplies you, your family, and your friends with plenty of comfortable space. Something else to consider is whether or not the air conditioning blows out cold air. How old do the tires look? Do the brakes provide the right amount of responsiveness? Finally, remember to test the headlights, brake lights, turn signal indicator lights, and dome light to make sure they’re all in proper working order.

Q. Should I have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle I intend to buy?

A. If you’re going through a private seller, you should definitely have the car checked out by a mechanic you trust to make sure there aren’t any major issues.