How to compare used cars
Compare on four things: out-the-door total, total cost over the loan (not monthly payment), condition evidence (inspection, history report, recalls) and warranty status on the Buyers Guide.
Example: the “cheaper” car that costs more
| Car A | Car B | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $19,000 | $18,000 + $1,295 package |
| Term (8% APR) | 60 mo | 72 mo |
| Monthly payment | $428.07 | $375.74 |
| Out-the-door | $21,111.80 | $21,430.40 |
| Total interest | $4,572.47 | $5,623.19 |
| Total cost | $25,684.27 | $27,053.59 |
Car B has the lower payment but the higher total cost. (No down payment; 8% tax; $85 doc; $500 registration.)
Condition and paperwork
- Recalls and VIN details: Check a Car.
- History: an NMVTIS-based report (list of providers) and NICB VINCheck for theft/total-loss records.
- Warranty: the Buyers Guide says “as is” or warranty, and overrides the contract if they conflict (FTC).
- Independent inspection on your finalist.
Next step: Save and compare cars in My Journey →
Sources
- FTC, Buying a Used Car From a Dealer
- NMVTIS, Vehicle history (U.S. DOJ)
- NICB VINCheck (theft and total-loss records)
Last reviewed October 12, 2026 by TrustBuy Expert. General information, not legal or financial advice.