Questions to ask before signing a used car contract
Before you sign, confirm the out-the-door total matches what you agreed, the APR and term are what you were quoted, every add-on is one you asked for, and the warranty on the Buyers Guide matches the contract.
- Does the out-the-door total match the itemized quote I accepted?
- What APR, term and amount financed are on the contract? Does the monthly payment match? (Check it in Check the Price.)
- Is every add-on, warranty or GAP product one I asked for? Can I remove it? (FTC)
- Does the Buyers Guide say “as is” or warranty, and does the contract match? (FTC)
- Is this financing final, or could the dealer call me back to re-sign at a different rate?
- Do I have copies of everything I signed?
There's generally no automatic 3-day right to cancel a car purchase (FTC), so ask before you sign, not after. Run through Before I Buy or get a deal review.
Next step: Am I ready to sign? Run the checklist →
Sources
- FTC, Buying a Used Car From a Dealer
- FTC, Car dealerships can't charge you for add-ons you don't want
- CFPB, Auto loan key terms
Last reviewed October 12, 2026 by TrustBuy Expert. General information, not legal or financial advice.