Cars
Buying a used car in the USA: what to check first
Price, the Buyers Guide, vehicle history, VIN recalls and an independent inspection.
Photo: Shixart1985 · CC BY 2.0 · cropped and compressed
Facts checked against primary sources: September 9, 2026.
Start with the full price
At a dealership, ask for the total out the door price in writing before discussing financing. The FTC recommends identifying every required fee and add-on. Compare offers using the same total amount, not only the monthly payment.
Read the Buyers Guide
Most dealers must display a Buyers Guide on every used car and give it to the buyer after the sale. It states whether the vehicle comes with a warranty or is sold as is. Ask for any spoken promise to be added to the contract and Buyers Guide.
Check the history by VIN
Match the VIN on the dashboard, door pillar and documents. A report from an approved NMVTIS provider may show title information, odometer data, salvage records and total loss history. The report is useful, but it does not replace a mechanical inspection.
Check open safety recalls
Enter the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls. The tool shows certain unrepaired safety recalls, and NHTSA lists the database limitations on the same page. If a recall appears, ask the manufacturer or dealer how the free repair is handled.
Arrange an independent inspection
Before paying, arrange an inspection with an independent mechanic you choose. If the seller will not allow it, consider that refusal before continuing. Confirm the return policy in advance because federal law generally does not provide a three day cancellation right for a car purchase.