10 Must-Ask Questions Before Buying a Used Car

Buying a Used Car Is Like Going on a Blind Date

Buying a used car is like going on a blind date—with a vehicle that’s been around the block a few times. It might shine, sparkle, and purr like a dream… but under the hood? Well, let’s just say you’d better ask the right questions before committing.

Whether you’re a dealer, car rental operator, or export pro, knowing the right questions to ask when buying a used car can save you money, headaches, and unhappy customers.

Let’s run through the 10 questions you must ask—and why they matter.

Why Asking the Right Questions Saves You Time, Money, and Sanity

Don’t Fall for the Shine—Buy Smart, Not Pretty

Used cars can look showroom-fresh after a good polish. But appearances can be deceiving. A quick Q&A can uncover hidden accidents, repair shortcuts, or even tampered odometers.

Why Dealers, Exporters, and Rental Fleets Ask More Than “Is it Clean?”

Because you’re not just buying a car—you’re buying liability, reputation, and resale potential. So let’s start asking smarter.

1. What’s the Vehicle’s Full History?

Number of previous owners
Accidents and damage
Service history
Registration records

If the seller hesitates to provide a Carfax, AutoCheck, or verified report—run.

2. Why Is the Car Being Sold?

Sometimes it’s a family upgrade. Sometimes it’s an oil-leaking nightmare on wheels. Ask. Then read between the lines.

3. Can I See the Maintenance and Service Records?

Oil changes. Brake jobs. Transmission flushes.
Cars with consistent service logs scream reliable ownership.

No paperwork = a giant red flag for any savvy buyer.

4. Has It Ever Been in an Accident?

And don’t stop there—ask:

Was the airbag deployed?
Was the frame damaged?
Who repaired it?

Minor fender bender? No biggie. Structural damage? Huge no-no.

5. What Is the Current Odometer Reading?

Low mileage isn’t everything. What matters is condition per kilometer.

A 100K-mile car with great service is often better than a 40K-mile garage queen with issues.

6. Can I Take It for an Independent Inspection?

A trustworthy seller won’t mind. A shady one will make excuses.

Pay a pro to lift the car, scan the systems, and sniff out issues. It could save you thousands in repairs or loss of resale value.

Check out this 🔧 used car inspection checklist

7. Are There Any Modifications or Aftermarket Parts?

Especially for:

Engine upgrades
Exhaust mods
Suspension kits

These can void warranties, complicate exports, or hurt fuel economy.

8. Is the Title Clean, Salvaged, or Rebuilt?

Titles tell the truth:

Clean: All good.
Salvaged: Insurance deemed it a loss.
Rebuilt: Salvage fixed and re-certified.

🚩 Salvage or rebuilt? Tread carefully, or avoid entirely for rental/export.

9. Are There Any Recalls? Have They Been Addressed?

Recalls are free to fix, but unaddressed ones are dangerous—and can kill a sale down the line.

You can check any VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls

10. What’s Included in the Sale?

You’d be surprised what’s NOT included:

Extra keys?
Owner’s manual?
Spare tire?
Navigation SD card?
Transfer paperwork?

Get it in writing before you shake hands.

Bonus: 3 Questions Every Dealer Should Ask When Exporting Used Cars

Is the car emissions-compliant for the destination country?
This can make or break customs clearance.
What’s in demand in the target market?
Sedans in Dubai, pickups in Nigeria, hybrids in Europe—know the trends.
Has the car been prepped for international delivery?
That includes fluid checks, tire pressure, and documentation packets.