Before You Contact The Seller
- Save the listing URL, asking price, mileage, VIN if shown, seller name, and location.
- Compare similar year, make, model, trim, mileage, condition, and title status.
- Estimate taxes, registration, title, dealer, inspection, and add-on fees before discussing payment.
Questions To Ask
- Can you send the VIN and a photo of the title with personal information covered?
- Is the title in your name, and is there a lienholder?
- Are there accident, flood, salvage, rebuilt, odometer, or lemon-law title issues?
- Can I get an independent pre-purchase inspection before payment?
Inspection And Test Drive
- Inspect the car cold in daylight and check warning lights, leaks, tires, glass, paint, rust, and interior condition.
- Check tire DOT date codes, tread depth, brake feel, steering, suspension noise, shifting, and acceleration.
- Verify that all keys, electronics, HVAC, windows, locks, seatbelts, and lights work.
Paperwork And Payment
- Match the VIN on the car, title, bill of sale, quote, and insurance documents.
- Confirm the seller name, signature requirements, lien release, odometer disclosure, and state DMV transfer steps.
- Use a payment method with a clear record and do not send money before document issues are resolved.