Questions to ask before buying a used car

Use these questions before you visit the vehicle, send a deposit, or rely on a listing description.

Ask these first

Can you share the VIN?

This is the starting point for basic research and helps you avoid wasting time on incomplete listings.

Is the title in your name?

Ask about title status, liens, salvage branding, and whether the name matches the seller.

Why are you selling?

The answer is not proof, but it gives context and may reveal inconsistencies.

Any accidents or major repairs?

Ask directly, then compare the answer with records, inspection, and your own review.

Can I inspect it?

Independent inspection is especially important for private-party sales and online listings.

What payment do you accept?

Avoid rushed, unusual, or irreversible payment requests before verification.

Copy-paste seller message

Hi, I am interested in the vehicle. Before scheduling a visit, can you share the VIN, current mileage, title status, reason for selling, any accident/repair history, and whether an independent inspection is okay?

Optional pre-visit step

After you receive the VIN, use it to decide whether the car is worth a visit and inspection.

Review the VIN on the official seller site

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