You’ve found a beautiful pre-owned vehicle on the dealer’s lot. Now, what should you do? Before you sign and drive off, you need answers to a few necessary questions. Here’s what to ask your dealer about purchasing a used car so you know you’re making a sound investment.

5 Inquiries For Your Used Car Dealer

1. Has This Car Been Damaged?

The greatest unknown in a used-car purchase is the possibility of concealed damage. If the vehicle was involved in anything from a fender-bender to a flood, there’s a possibility of serious structural and safety issues. Don’t be shy about asking questions, and always get a report from your salesperson to confirm your car’s history.

2. Has This Vehicle Been Certified?

Many dealerships sell used vehicles that have been inspected, reconditioned, and certified to meet a strict set of quality and warranty criteria. The checklist for certification may include standards for low mileage, mechanical integrity, and appearance. Certification typically also includes extended warranties, financing terms, and past reports of damage. If the car isn’t certified, get a satisfactory dealer warranty, and consider purchasing an extension.

3. Can You Test & Inspect the Car?

If your prospective purchase does not come with certification, it’s critical to have the vehicle’s quality confirmed by an independent expert. Otherwise, issues with anything from the power train to the air conditioning could be lurking around the corner. Also, be sure to take the car on a test drive that simulates various common conditions.

4. How Did the Dealer Acquire the Car?

A dealer may acquire vehicles from trade-ins, other dealerships, auctions, and even rental car companies. If the car has been properly inspected and warranties are in place, it usually won’t make much difference. However, if you don’t want to be the 100th driver of a fleet vehicle, it’s beneficial information to have.

5. How Can You Pay?

From loans to trades and cash, it’s ideal to have options for completing your purchase. The first step is agreeing to a price based on comparable local values. Next, it’s time to consider a cash payment and financing.

Explore every opportunity to get the best rates—including walking into the dealership with loan preapproval already in place. Credit unions, in particular, offer excellent terms. If you have a trade-in, establish all other terms before asking the dealer for their offer. You may do better selling on your own.

When you’re ready to purchase a quality used car that comes equipped with priceless peace of mind, the professionals at Discount Auto Sales in Mountain Home, AR, want to help. Serving the entire Baxter County area, they offer the region’s largest selection of used automobiles at the best prices. Call (870) 425-1775 for hours and directions, or visit their website to explore their full inventory.