Questions to Ask at a Dealership
Essential questions that help you make an informed car buying decision, understand the vehicle's history, and negotiate the best deal possible.
1What's the vehicle's history and how many previous owners has it had?
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What's the vehicle's history and how many previous owners has it had?
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Why this works
Understanding the vehicle's ownership history helps you assess its condition and potential issues, ensuring you make an informed decision.
2Has the vehicle been in any accidents or had any major repairs?
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Has the vehicle been in any accidents or had any major repairs?
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Why this works
Knowing about accidents or major repairs helps you understand the vehicle's condition and potential future maintenance needs.
3What's the current mileage and what's the average annual mileage?
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What's the current mileage and what's the average annual mileage?
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Why this works
Understanding the mileage helps you assess the vehicle's wear and tear and determine if it's been driven excessively.
4What's included in the warranty and what's covered?
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What's included in the warranty and what's covered?
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Why this works
Understanding warranty coverage helps you know what protection you have and what maintenance costs you'll be responsible for.
5What's the vehicle's maintenance history and service records?
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What's the vehicle's maintenance history and service records?
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Why this works
Reviewing maintenance records helps you understand how well the vehicle has been cared for and what maintenance may be needed.
6What's the total cost including all fees, taxes, and add-ons?
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What's the total cost including all fees, taxes, and add-ons?
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Why this works
Understanding the total cost helps you budget properly and avoid surprises when finalizing the purchase.
7What financing options are available and what are the interest rates?
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What financing options are available and what are the interest rates?
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Why this works
Understanding financing options helps you choose the best payment method and potentially save money on interest.
8What's the vehicle's fuel economy and what type of fuel does it use?
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What's the vehicle's fuel economy and what type of fuel does it use?
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Why this works
Understanding fuel economy helps you budget for operating costs and choose a vehicle that fits your needs.
9What safety features does the vehicle have and what's its safety rating?
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What safety features does the vehicle have and what's its safety rating?
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Why this works
Understanding safety features helps you choose a vehicle that provides the protection you need for you and your family.
10What's the vehicle's reliability rating and common issues?
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What's the vehicle's reliability rating and common issues?
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Why this works
Understanding reliability helps you assess potential future maintenance costs and choose a vehicle that will serve you well.
11What's the vehicle's resale value and depreciation rate?
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What's the vehicle's resale value and depreciation rate?
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Why this works
Understanding resale value helps you assess the long-term cost of ownership and make a more informed financial decision.
12What's the vehicle's insurance cost and what factors affect it?
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What's the vehicle's insurance cost and what factors affect it?
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Why this works
Understanding insurance costs helps you budget for total ownership costs and choose a vehicle that fits your budget.
13What's the vehicle's cargo capacity and seating configuration?
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What's the vehicle's cargo capacity and seating configuration?
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Why this works
Understanding capacity helps you ensure the vehicle meets your practical needs for passengers and cargo.
14What's the vehicle's towing capacity and what can it tow?
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What's the vehicle's towing capacity and what can it tow?
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Why this works
Understanding towing capacity helps you choose a vehicle that can handle your towing needs if required.
15What's the vehicle's ground clearance and off-road capabilities?
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What's the vehicle's ground clearance and off-road capabilities?
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Why this works
Understanding capabilities helps you choose a vehicle that can handle your driving needs and terrain requirements.
16What's the vehicle's technology features and connectivity options?
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What's the vehicle's technology features and connectivity options?
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Why this works
Understanding technology features helps you choose a vehicle that meets your connectivity and entertainment needs.
17What's the vehicle's storage space and interior features?
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What's the vehicle's storage space and interior features?
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Why this works
Understanding interior features helps you choose a vehicle that provides the comfort and convenience you need.
18What's the vehicle's performance specifications and driving characteristics?
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What's the vehicle's performance specifications and driving characteristics?
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Why this works
Understanding performance helps you choose a vehicle that meets your driving preferences and performance needs.
19What's the vehicle's environmental impact and emissions rating?
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What's the vehicle's environmental impact and emissions rating?
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Why this works
Understanding environmental impact helps you choose a vehicle that aligns with your environmental values and may save on taxes.
20What's the best way to maintain this vehicle and what maintenance schedule should I follow?
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What's the best way to maintain this vehicle and what maintenance schedule should I follow?
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Why this works
Understanding maintenance requirements helps you keep the vehicle in good condition and avoid costly repairs.
Making an Informed Car Purchase
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Do Your Research First
Research the vehicle model, pricing, and reviews before visiting the dealership. This helps you ask more informed questions and negotiate better.
Ask About Total Cost
Always ask about the total cost including all fees, taxes, and add-ons. This helps you avoid surprises and budget properly.
Get Everything in Writing
Make sure all promises, warranties, and agreements are documented in writing. This protects you and ensures you get what you're promised.
Question Sequences
The Vehicle History Sequence
The Cost and Financing Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Monthly Payments
While monthly payments are important, focus on the total cost of ownership including insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs.
Don't Skip the Test Drive
Always test drive the vehicle to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Don't rely solely on specifications and descriptions.
Don't Ignore Hidden Costs
Ask about all fees, taxes, and add-ons. Hidden costs can significantly increase the total price of the vehicle.