Before you buy a used vehicle
Combine history, an independent inspection and written purchase terms.
Read the lesson, then check your understanding.Keep the inspection independent of the sales pitch
The FTC recommends an independent mechanical inspection before buying a used car. A history report can help, but it does not replace an assessment of the vehicle’s current condition. Ask the seller to allow an inspection and ask the inspector what the appointment includes.
Share the VIN, advertised mileage, known issues and any service records before booking. Ask about the cost, time needed and whether specialized checks are available for that vehicle. An inspection can identify observed concerns; it cannot guarantee that nothing will fail later.
Use the report to make your own decision
Ask for written findings with photographs or measurements where available. Separate observed defects from unknown history and future maintenance. Request an estimate for work that affects your budget. A report is most useful when it explains both what was checked and the limits of that check.
Check the VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and read the result carefully. Follow up with the manufacturer or authorized dealer about any recall remedy. Keep the lookup date and the inspection report with your buying notes; they answer different questions.
Read the deal before you sign
For a dealer sale, review the FTC Buyers Guide and the written warranty or “as is” terms. Get promises and agreed repairs in writing. Compare the total purchase cost, not only a monthly payment. Do not confuse a separately purchased service contract with a manufacturer warranty.
If you proceed, keep the sales documents and initial inspection as the starting point for your maintenance history. Ask the servicing shop to build a prioritized plan from documented findings. Decide what needs attention before regular use and what should be monitored later.
Your next-visit checklist
- Ask for an independent inspection.
- Review the report’s scope and limitations.
- Run a VIN recall check.
- Read written sale and warranty terms.
Check your understanding.
Answer all three correctly to save this course as completed. You can review and retry as often as needed.
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Lesson updated September 17, 2026. General education; use the instructions for your vehicle and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority. Completing this lesson does not certify you to repair or inspect vehicles.