Used car buyer guides

Questions to ask a used car dealer

Ask for the itemized out-the-door price, which add-ons are already installed and whether they're removable, the VIN, the history report, whether you can take it for an independent inspection, and whether it's sold “as is” or with a warranty.

Before you visit (by text or email)

1. What's the itemized out-the-door price, including all taxes, fees and add-ons?
2. What's the VIN? (Check it for recalls in Check a Car.)
3. Are any add-ons already on the car, and can they be removed?
4. Is the car still available, and is the advertised price valid with my own financing?

At the dealership

1. Can I take it to my mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection?
2. Do you have the service records and a vehicle history report?
3. Is it sold “as is” or with a warranty? (Check the Buyers Guide on the window: FTC.)
4. Are there open recalls, and will you fix them before sale?
5. Is the title clean and in hand?

Before you sign

See questions before signing. The Negotiate tool writes the out-the-door request for you; you send it.

Next step: Write your out-the-door request →

Sources

• FTC, Buying a Used Car From a Dealer
• FTC, Dealer's Guide to the Used Car Rule

Last reviewed October 12, 2026 by TrustBuy Expert. General information, not legal or financial advice.

Related

• Questions to ask before signing a used car contract
• Used car inspection: what to check
• Buying a used car from a private seller: checklist