Used Car FAQs

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be one of the smartest financial moves you make, but only if you go in with the right information. Every pre-owned vehicle has a story, and the questions you ask are how you uncover it. Knowing what to ask about a car’s history, condition, ownership costs, and warranty coverage helps you separate a great value from a costly mistake, and it gives you the confidence to negotiate on solid ground. At Spitzer, we believe an informed buyer is a happy buyer, and after helping drivers across our 29 dealerships find the right vehicle, we’ve learned which questions matter most. Below, we’ve gathered the essential questions every shopper should ask before signing on the dotted line, so you can drive away knowing you made the right choice. 

Vehicle History & Condition

Can I see the full vehicle history report?
Look for past accidents, ownership changes, and consistent maintenance history.

Does this car have a history of recent service or inspections?
Ask for documentation on what the dealership repaired after they acquired the vehicle.

Can I take the car to an independent mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI)?
A reputable dealer should allow you to take the vehicle off-site for a third-party check.

Are there any open safety recalls on this vehicle?
Ensure any manufacturer recalls have already been fixed.

How many previous owners has the car had?
Fewer owners usually means the car’s history is easier to verify. Why are you selling the car? (For private sellers) This helps uncover hidden issues or lifestyle changes that fit the sale.

Has the car ever been in an accident?
Even if minor, accidents can affect the car’s structural alignment and resale value.

Maintenance & Mechanical Condition

Do you have the service records?
Routine oil changes and scheduled maintenance prove the car was cared for.

Are there any current mechanical issues or warning lights on?
Knowing what needs immediate repair helps you negotiate the price.

Can I take the car to my own mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI)?
A refusal is a major red flag; always get an independent inspection.

When were the brakes and tires last replaced?
These are wear-and-tear items that can cost hundreds of dollars to replace soon after buying.

Financials & Paperwork

Do you have the title in hand?
Make sure the seller actually owns the vehicle and that there are no active liens on it.

Is the price negotiable?
This establishes your starting point for bargaining based on your research.

Are there any additional dealership fees?
Ask for a breakdown of documentation, prep, or hidden fees before agreeing to a price.

Is the car being sold “as-is” or does it have a warranty?
Most used cars are sold as-is, meaning you are responsible for any breakdown the moment you drive away.

What is the “out-of-the-door” price?
This forces the dealer to reveal the total cost, including taxes, registration, and dealership fees, rather than just the sticker price.

Are there any dealer-installed add-ons already included in this price?
Watch out for forced extras like nitrogen-filled tires, window tinting, or anti-theft tracking systems that inflate the cost.

Do you accept trade-ins, and how do you value them?
Find your trade value for your current car.

Ownership & Warranty

Does this car have any remaining factory or dealer warranty?
Find out if you are buying the car “as-is” or if you have a safety net (like a 30-day powertrain warranty).

Is this a Spitzer Certified vehicle?
Spitzer offers in-house certification on some used vehicles, giving you extra protection when you purchase a used vehicle. 

Is this a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle?
CPO cars cost more but come with official manufacturer inspections and extended warranties.

Is this vehicle covered by Spitzer Shield? 
Some used vehicles are covered by our Spitzer Shield, included a limited Powertrain Warranty, and 172-point inspection. 

Usage & Features

How were most of the miles driven?
Highway miles cause less wear and tear than stop-and-go city driving.

Does everything work?
Explicitly ask about the air conditioning, heater, power windows, infotainment system, and heated seats.

The Test Drive & Extras

Can I test drive it on the highway?
Make sure you test the car at both low city speeds and higher highway speeds to check for alignment or transmission issues.

Does the car come with all original keys, fobs, and the owner’s manual?
Replacing modern electronic key fobs can easily cost $200 to $400 each.

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