Buying a new or used car can be an incredibly exciting time, a significant milestone that often represents freedom, convenience, and a step forward in one’s life. Yet, as many experienced buyers will attest, it can also be an overwhelming journey, fraught with countless considerations that can leave even the most prepared consumer feeling lost in a sea of information. From deciphering technical specifications to navigating financing options, the path to a smart car purchase requires a thoughtful and strategic approach.
Here at Kelley Blue Book, our team has collectively navigated the car-buying process hundreds of times, and we understand the nuances and potential pitfalls that first-time buyers and seasoned shoppers alike might encounter. We’ve learned valuable lessons along the way – insights we wish we had known beforehand – and we’re eager to share them with you. This comprehensive guide is crafted to help you make an informed decision, ensuring you drive away with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
While we’re assuming you’ve already identified the general vehicle type that suits your needs, whether it’s gas-powered, a hybrid, or an electric vehicle, the real work begins when you start looking at specific models. This article delves into 14 key questions and considerations that every consumer should address before making such a substantial purchase. By asking these questions, you’ll be empowered to prioritize safety, maximize value, and ensure your new vehicle truly meets your expectations for years to come.
1. **Have you thoroughly test-driven for comfort and fit?**The test drive is arguably the most crucial step in assessing a vehicle’s performance and handling, offering an unfiltered glimpse into what your daily driving experience will be like. It might sound overly simplistic, but as Andy Bornhop, a former Senior Vehicle Reviews Editor, wisely put it, “don’t buy a car without actually sitting in it first.” This isn’t just about taking it for a spin around the block; it’s your dedicated opportunity to explore the car’s technology, convenience features, and confirm that it aligns perfectly with your driving expectations.
Beyond just performance, the test drive is the prime moment to evaluate your personal comfort behind the wheel. Trevor Spedden, Kelley Blue Book SEO Content Analyst, offers a vital piece of advice: ensure the car is comfortable. He explains that while test drives can be brief and information-dense, simply spending more than 10 or 15 minutes sitting in the car can significantly enhance your understanding of its comfort level on longer journeys. While you might still experience some discomfort on multi-hour road trips, the critical question is how often you truly anticipate driving hundreds of miles daily.
Andy Bornhop reinforces the importance of this personal fit, stating, “If you don’t fit well in the car, you’ll never be comfortable.” He elaborates on common issues: a tall driver might find themselves needing to look down to see out the windshield, while a shorter individual could struggle to reach the pedals or end up uncomfortably close to the airbag. These seemingly minor discomforts can quickly become major irritants, potentially impacting your safety and overall satisfaction with the vehicle.
It’s not just about the driver, however; Trevor also emphasizes considering the comfort and accessibility for any regular passengers. He points out that “regularly having rear-seat passengers in a 2-door car gets old quickly,” and that “the same goes for tall trucks and SUVs for short people or kids.” Furthermore, a manual transmission might limit who else can drive your car if the need arises. Senior Advice Editor Chris Hardesty also advises parents to check child safety seats even before the test drive, ensuring they fit easily, can be installed and removed without hassle, and don’t interfere with your typical driving position, remembering that growing children will require more legroom in the future.
2. **Have you prepared a comprehensive budget, considering all costs?**The sticker price, or Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), is merely the starting point when considering a car’s cost at a dealership. It encompasses the vehicle’s base price and any factory-installed features. However, it’s a common misconception to assume this is the final price you’ll pay. Dealerships routinely add a variety of additional costs that can significantly inflate the total, making it imperative to understand the car’s full ‘out-the-door’ price before committing.
These additional costs can be extensive and varied. They often include destination or transportation fees, various dealer fees, title and registration fees, state sales taxes, license plate fees, and mandatory state inspections or emissions fees. Beyond these, you might also encounter optional dealer add-ons, dealer markups, gap insurance, extended warranty plans, and service plans. Requesting a detailed breakdown of all these additional costs is not just helpful; it’s essential for a clear financial picture.
Understanding which of these additional costs are negotiable and which are fixed is also a critical part of your budget preparation. Non-negotiable expenses typically include destination/transportation fees, taxes (which vary by state), registration and title fees, license fees, and state inspection and emissions fees. If these aren’t explicitly included in the quoted total price, you’ll need to account for them separately. Having a transparent breakdown allows you to identify areas where you might be able to negotiate for a better deal or challenge unnecessary add-ons.
Trevor Spedden offers direct advice on budgeting: “If you’ve saved $10,000 to buy a used car, you shouldn’t look at cars costing more than $8,000.” This foresight is crucial because dealer fees, sales tax, vehicle registration, and inspection costs can easily exceed $1,000 for a $10,000 vehicle, pushing its true cost to $11,000 even before any maintenance or repairs. It’s vital to leave substantial room in your budget for inevitable expenses like oil changes, new tires, brake replacements, and other worn items that will require attention post-purchase.
3. **Are you prepared for potential repairs and long-term ownership costs?**While budgeting for the initial purchase is critical, a truly informed car-buying decision extends to preparing for the ongoing reality of insurance and repair expenses, which are largely unavoidable. However, proactive planning can help mitigate these costs. Trevor Spedden advises a strategic approach to insurance claims: “If the repair is slightly higher than your insurance deductible, pay it out of pocket. Don’t use your ‘accident forgiveness’ on a minor claim because a major accident could be around the corner.” This approach helps preserve your coverage and potentially prevent increased premiums or even cancellation.
For those willing to get their hands dirty, tackling certain repairs yourself can lead to significant savings. Sean Tucker highlights this, noting, “Some repairs aren’t hard to learn.” While you’ll certainly need a trusted shop for major issues, learning to perform basic tasks like changing your own oil can save hundreds of dollars annually. For a slightly more ambitious endeavor, learning to change brake pads is often more accessible and requires fewer tools and less time than one might expect, as evidenced by his 18-year-old daughter successfully doing her own brakes for an inspection.
Extended warranties, often pushed with high-pressure sales tactics, aren’t always worth the cost. While they can offer peace of mind, it’s essential to be discerning. If you do decide to invest in coverage, ensure it’s an exclusion warranty. These types of warranties are generally more comprehensive, covering everything except for specific items it expressly excludes, thereby offering a lower chance for a claim to be denied by the warranty company.
Beyond repairs, understanding the true cost to own encompasses various fees and inflation. Nearly all Kelley Blue Book team members stress awareness of registration and tax requirements. You might shop out-of-state, but be ready to pay sales tax, use tax, or ad valorem in the state where you register the car. Annual or biannual fees can also significantly impact your overall expenditure over the vehicle’s lifespan. Proper maintenance is paramount for vehicle longevity, and budgeting for required services, which can cost several hundred dollars even for a simple oil change and inspection, is key. Some carmakers offer prepaid maintenance plans at a discount, which can be a smart investment if affordable. Furthermore, inflation affects everything from gas prices to oil, as Trevor experienced with his Volkswagen GTI, where oil changes increased 20% over five years, significantly raising his annual operating costs, not including rising tire prices. This demonstrates that maintaining a vehicle rarely becomes less expensive.
4. **Have you adequately assessed the vehicle’s cargo capacity and parking fit?**Adequate storage space is a often-overlooked yet critical consideration, whether your life involves frequent road trips, hauling specialized equipment for hobbies or work, or simply managing the weekly grocery run and family transport. Sean Tucker offers a rather pointed, yet practical, piece of advice for young, first-time car shoppers: “Everyone needs a truck, or a friend with a truck.” He suggests considering the smallest reliable pickup available, especially for those in their 20s who tend to move often, noting that a solid Tacoma can be a great way to meet people and become indispensable.
When you’re considering a vehicle large enough to accommodate substantial cargo loads, a crucial, albeit easily forgotten, question arises: will it actually fit into your designated parking space at home? This isn’t just about length, but also height and width. Pickup trucks, for example, can stretch to over 22 feet long, while many standard garages are typically only 20-24 feet deep. Trevor highlights this potential mismatch, noting, “Midsize trucks are approaching the size of full-size trucks from a decade or two ago,” making garage clearance a real concern.
Conversely, at the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of “Will my vehicle fit?” are sports cars, which often come with only a few inches of ground clearance. Trevor warns that buyers must ensure their driveway or neighborhood is accessible for such low-slung vehicles. Having to use ramps daily just to get in and out of the driveway to prevent vehicle damage can become tedious and tiresome very quickly, diminishing the joy of owning such a car.
Russ Heaps, Senior Advice Editor, provides valuable guidance regarding second- and third-row storage in vehicles. He advises checking if the seat back folds completely flat. He stresses that “Just because the second- or third-row split seat folds doesn’t mean it folds flat.” The distinction between merely folding and folding flat can be enormous, significantly impacting not only the general cargo capacity but also the shape and type of cargo you can efficiently load into the vehicle. This detail can be a deal-breaker for those with specific hauling needs.
Car Model Information: 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road
Name: Toyota Tacoma
Caption: 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: January 1995 – present
ModelYears: 1995–present
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Toyota Hilux (N80)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup; subsequent models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name “Tacoma” was derived from the Coast Salish peoples’ name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
Get more information about: Toyota Tacoma
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Toyota Model: Tacoma
Price: $30,399 Mileage: 107,081 mi.
5. **What does the vehicle history report reveal, and have you verified it?**When you’re in the market for a used car, obtaining a vehicle history report (VHR) should be an absolute priority. This document is a treasure trove of crucial details, providing insights into accident records, the car’s title status (such as whether it’s a salvage, rebuilt, or flood-damaged vehicle), and verified odometer readings. Before proceeding with any further steps, it is imperative to confirm that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) prominently displayed on the car precisely matches the VIN listed on the report. This simple verification can prevent significant issues down the line.
However, it’s vital to approach a VHR with a degree of caution and not let it lull you into a false sense of security. While immensely valuable, a VHR may not always tell the complete story of a vehicle’s past. A significant limitation is that accidents or damage to a vehicle are often not reported to official channels, and therefore, will likely not be disclosed in the report. For instance, unscrupulous sellers might resell vehicles that have been flooded or damaged but failed to report the incidents, or if repair work was performed by the owner, it typically won’t appear on the report.
To compensate for these potential gaps, becoming a keen observer can save you from unforeseen problems. Look for tangible signs of unreported damage, such as stained carpets, which could indicate past flooding, or debris lodged in between seats. Another effective way to detect possible prior damage is to stand directly in front of the car and meticulously ensure that the paint on the hood precisely matches the paint on the sides. Any noticeable mismatch in color or texture could be a strong indicator that the car has been involved in an accident and subsequently repaired or repainted.
Despite the insights a VHR provides and your own meticulous visual inspection, the ultimate safeguard when considering a used car remains a professional assessment. It is always strongly recommended that you take any used vehicle you’re interested in to a reputable, independent mechanic for a comprehensive inspection. This critical step can help uncover any hidden or major damage that might have been missed by previous reports or your own observations, providing peace of mind and protecting your investment.
6. **Has an independent mechanic performed a pre-purchase inspection?**Even after diligently reviewing a vehicle history report and conducting your own visual inspection, a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) conducted by a trusted independent mechanic stands as your most formidable defense against unforeseen hidden problems. This step is not just a recommendation; it’s an indispensable safeguard that can prevent you from inheriting costly mechanical issues that might not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye or disclosed in official documentation. It represents a commitment to due diligence that can save you significant time, money, and stress in the long run.
An experienced and reputable mechanic possesses the specialized knowledge and tools to thoroughly examine critical components of the vehicle, going far beyond what a surface-level inspection or even an advanced diagnostic scanner can reveal. They are adept at spotting subtle issues with the transmission, brakes, engine, or suspension systems that could evolve into major failures shortly after your purchase. This expert assessment focuses on the overall health and integrity of the vehicle, offering a professional opinion that is free from any seller bias.
While a vehicle history report can provide valuable insights into a car’s past, and you might have confirmed that crucial safety features like airbags or the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) are present, a PPI ensures they are not only present but also fully intact and functioning as they should. For used cars especially, where components are subject to wear and tear, this additional layer of scrutiny is absolutely crucial. Investing in a PPI is a small upfront cost that offers immense value, potentially saving you from thousands of dollars in future repairs and giving you the confidence that your chosen vehicle is indeed safe and reliable.
7. **What do trusted third-party safety ratings and reviews say?**In the journey to purchase a car, understanding its safety credentials from objective, third-party authorities is paramount. You wouldn’t buy a home without an inspection, and similarly, you shouldn’t buy a car without consulting expert safety evaluations. In the United States, two primary organizations lead the charge in automobile safety assessment: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Their rigorous testing and detailed reports provide invaluable insights into a vehicle’s protective capabilities.
It’s important to recognize that both the IIHS and NHTSA conduct different types of crash tests and employ distinct criteria to rate vehicles. The IIHS, for instance, is known for its comprehensive crashworthiness and crash avoidance evaluations, often including tests like the challenging small overlap front crash test. NHTSA, on the other hand, performs its own frontal, side, and rollover crash tests, assigning overall star ratings. Therefore, for a holistic view of a car’s safety, it’s highly advisable to review reports from both organizations, looking for models that consistently earn high marks and, ideally, have the approval of both entities.
Beyond safety ratings, broadening your research to include general reviews and valuation guides from trusted sources like Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book can further enrich your decision-making process. These platforms provide a broad spectrum of information, ranging from detailed vehicle reviews that highlight driving dynamics and interior comfort to comprehensive safety ratings and, crucially, the actual market values of cars. Leveraging these resources can help you identify a vehicle that not only meets your safety requirements but also aligns perfectly with your budget, ensuring a well-rounded and informed purchase.”
8. **Are there any known issues I should be aware of?**When considering a used vehicle, directly asking the seller about known issues is a crucial step, complementing a vehicle history report (VHR) and pre-purchase inspection (PPI). While VHRs detail documented history and PPIs uncover hidden mechanical problems, a direct conversation can reveal ongoing quirks or minor incidents not in formal reports. This transparency can potentially save you from future headaches and unexpected repair bills.
Be specific in your questioning, moving beyond a generic “Are there any problems?” Inquire about common concerns indicating underlying issues, such as oil leaks, signaling minor gasket wear or significant engine problems. Also, ask about rust spots, which can indicate poor maintenance or damage compromising structural integrity.
Beyond visible issues, inquire about less obvious signs of trouble like strange noises while driving, braking, or idling. Ask about smoke from the exhaust, indicating serious engine malfunctions, or any malfunctioning electrical components, which are often expensive to repair. These direct inquiries fully inform you about the vehicle’s true condition, empowering a decision based on its operational history and challenges.
Read more about: Behind the Badge: What Cops Secretly Observe About Your Custom Chopper Ride
9. **What common wear and tear should I expect soon after I buy?**Even an excellent-condition car will eventually need maintenance due to natural wear and tear. A smart buyer anticipates these expenses, factoring them into their budget. A visual inspection, by you or an independent mechanic, reveals components needing near-future attention. This proactive approach helps avoid surprises, negotiate effectively, and prevents immediate significant post-purchase costs.
Tires visibly indicate past use and future expenses. Beyond essential tread depth, look for uneven wear. Tread worn on one edge, for example, signals alignment problems that, if unaddressed, lead to premature tire replacement and affect handling.
Brakes invariably wear out. During a test drive, listen for squealing or grinding, often signifying nearing end-of-life brake pads. Visually inspect pads and rotors for remaining life. Also, check belts and hoses for cracks or fraying; their deterioration can lead to costly breakdowns. Addressing these wear items upfront clarifies the car’s immediate maintenance needs.
10. **Is the title “clean”?**Understanding the status of a vehicle’s title is an absolutely non-negotiable step when purchasing a used car. A “clean” title is your assurance that the car is owned free and clear, meaning there are no financial liens from a bank or other lender against it. This is paramount because if a lien exists, the lender could still claim ownership of the vehicle, even after you’ve paid the seller, leading to immense legal and financial complications.
Beyond financial encumbrances, the title also reveals crucial branding information that can severely impact a vehicle’s value, safety, and insurability. A title branded as “salvage,” “rebuilt,” or “flood damaged” indicates that the car has suffered extensive damage in the past, often to the point where the cost of repairs exceeded a certain percentage of its market value.
A salvage title means the car was deemed a total loss by an insurance company, typically due to significant damage. A rebuilt title indicates a salvage vehicle has been repaired and passed inspection, though reliability may still be compromised. Flood-damaged titles mean the car was submerged, leading to insidious electrical and mold issues. Knowing the title status is fundamental to an informed decision about the car’s true condition and long-term viability.
Read more about: Rediscovering the Essentials: 13 Indispensable Workshop Tools You Might Be Forgetting
11. **What specific safety equipment is standard, and how do advanced features operate?**While general safety ratings from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA offer a crucial overview, a truly informed car purchase necessitates a detailed understanding of the specific safety equipment present and how these advanced features actually operate. Modern cars boast a plethora of safety technologies, and knowing which ones are standard, optional, or specific to certain trims can significantly impact your protection on the road. This deep dive into features ensures you’re actively comprehending the protective layers built into your prospective vehicle, moving beyond a simple star rating.
Even fundamental safety features have evolved considerably. It’s essential to research when foundational components like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) became standard, especially for older models, as these prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking and help maintain control during extreme maneuvers. Similarly, while all cars have airbags, advanced systems can now tailor their deployment based on crash severity and occupant position, minimizing injury. The presence and verified functionality of these core systems are paramount for everyday safety.
Beyond these staples, today’s vehicles offer sophisticated driver-assist and collision avoidance technologies such as Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Detection, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). However, as Senior Advice Editor Russ Heaps notes, “All adaptive cruise controls (ACC) aren’t created equal,” with variations in stop-and-go capabilities. You should also verify if FCW and AEB systems detect pedestrians and cyclists, an essential extra layer of protection. Understanding these nuances, alongside features like Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Rearview Cameras, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, ensures you select a safety suite that aligns with your specific driving needs.
12. **Are there any open recalls on this vehicle?**An often-overlooked yet critically important step when evaluating a car, particularly a used one, is to check for any open recalls. Unlike accidents or title issues, which sellers may or may not disclose, recall information is publicly available and directly impacts the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Unfortunately, neither car dealers nor private sellers are legally obligated to proactively inform you if a car is subject to a recall. This places the onus squarely on the buyer to perform due diligence, making it a definitive “buyer beware” situation.
Ignoring open recalls can have serious consequences. A recall means that a manufacturer has identified a defect that could pose a safety risk, ranging from minor annoyances to critical failures of airbags, brakes, or engine components. Driving a vehicle with an unrepaired recall could compromise your safety, the safety of your passengers, and even other road users.
To protect yourself and ensure the vehicle is safe, always use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to check for any outstanding recalls. This free and authoritative resource allows you to enter the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and instantly retrieve any open recalls associated with that specific car. This simple yet vital step provides peace of mind, confirms that necessary safety repairs have been addressed, and solidifies your confidence in the vehicle’s overall integrity before you finalize your purchase.
Read more about: Road to Regret: The 15 Vehicles Owners Wish They’d Never Driven Off the Lot
13. **Are there any current discounts or promotions available?**When navigating the car-buying process, especially for new vehicles, it’s easy to focus solely on the sticker price and negotiation tactics. However, a shrewd buyer understands that dealerships frequently offer a variety of discounts and promotions designed to attract customers and move inventory. Failing to inquire about these can mean leaving money on the table, potentially missing out on significant savings that could make a vehicle more affordable or allow you to upgrade to a better trim level without exceeding your budget.
These promotions can take many forms, including manufacturer rebates, special financing rates, dealer incentives, or package deals that bundle features at a reduced cost. Such offers often run for set periods, aligning with sales quotas or seasonal inventory clearances. For instance, end-of-month or end-of-year sales can be particularly advantageous as dealerships strive to meet targets.
Asking about current discounts or promotions not only helps reduce the overall cost of the car but also demonstrates your informed approach as a buyer. It signals to the dealership that you are looking for the best possible value and are aware of the potential for additional savings beyond the initial price quote. By actively seeking out and understanding these opportunities, you empower yourself to achieve a better deal and ensure your investment is as financially sound as possible.
14. **Does the vehicle come with a warranty, and what does it cover?**Understanding the warranty coverage is a cornerstone of a confident car purchase, especially when considering a new vehicle or a certified pre-owned (CPO) model. A warranty provides crucial protection against defects in materials or workmanship, offering peace of mind and potentially saving you from significant repair costs during the initial years of ownership. Unlike extended warranties, which are often optional add-ons, this question pertains to the standard manufacturer’s warranty for new cars or any remaining factory warranty that transfers to a used car, as well as specific CPO warranties.
For new cars, the manufacturer’s warranty typically covers major components like the powertrain (engine, transmission) and bumper-to-bumper issues for a specified period or mileage. It’s imperative to understand the duration of these coverages, what precisely they include, and what exclusions might apply. This clarity ensures that you know your rights and what recourse you have should a mechanical issue arise unexpectedly.
When purchasing a used car, particularly one that is only a few years old, it’s vital to ask if any portion of the original factory warranty is still active and transferable. Additionally, if considering a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, these often come with their own distinct warranty programs. Carefully reviewing these warranty documents and understanding their terms and conditions—including deductibles, coverage limits, and any specific maintenance requirements—is essential for making an informed decision and safeguarding your long-term investment.
Read more about: Are Tonneau Covers Truly Waterproof? Everything Truck Owners Need to Know Before Buying for Ultimate Cargo Protection
Navigating the journey to purchase a new or used car demands a blend of careful planning, meticulous inspection, and informed questioning. By diligently addressing these 14 pivotal inquiries, from the fundamental aspects of comfort and budget to the intricate details of safety features, vehicle history, and warranty protections, you empower yourself to make a decision rooted in knowledge, not just emotion. Remember, the goal is not merely to acquire a mode of transport, but to secure a reliable, safe, and value-driven asset that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and financial wisdom. Drive away with confidence, knowing you’ve considered every angle and prepared for the road ahead.
