Ultimate Checklist When Buying a Used Car

Pretty much any task that you can think of becomes much easier after doing a little bit of research; even buying a used car.

However, finding the time to scour the internet for various blogs takes a lot of time and energy. Because of this, many people decide not to do their research and opt for the first option that they find.

At Surex, we know that having the right vehicle is important. That’s why we’ve taken the time to do the research for you! Instead of spending your time surfing the web, feel free to use our checklist when buying a used car in Canada.

After reading our checklist, you’ll know exactly what you should do once you’ve found your next potential ride.

START A QUOTE

Continue reading to learn more about buying a used car in Canada.

Buying a used car checklist — 7 things that you need to do before committing to a purchase

So, you’ve found a used car, and you’d like to purchase it; what should you do next?

Take a look at our checklist when buying a used car before committing to a final decision: 

#1 – Examine the vehicle’s exterior

Assessing the vehicle’s exterior should be at the top of your checklist when buying a used car.

A vehicle’s exterior says a lot about the driver and the vehicle itself. For instance, if a used car has a clean exterior and is free of scratches, dents, dings and other forms of physical damage, you can assume that the owner took good care of the vehicle.

On the other hand, if there are several signs of physical damage, you can assume that the car wasn’t taken care of properly. In turn, you may want to look elsewhere for a used vehicle.

#2 — Check the vehicle’s mileage

Are you putting a “what to look for when buying a used car” checklist? If so, don’t forget to add “check the vehicle’s mileage” to the list.

Used vehicles are generally deemed “high-mileage” or “low-mileage”. High-mileage vehicles are cars that have been driven more than 160,000 km, whereas low-mileage vehicles are cars that have been driven less than 160,000 km.

As a rule of thumb, used cars that are deemed high-mileage are more prone to wear and tear-related accidents than low-mileage vehicles (this is particularly true for vehicles that have a lot of city mileage). This means that you may end up spending more on repairs than a driver with a low-mileage vehicle (of the same make and model).

Be sure to keep this in mind while shopping around for a used car in Canada.

Bonus tip — Check out this blog if you’d like to learn more about finding a used vehicle with good mileage in Canada.

#3 — Download a vehicle history report

Before buying a used car, make sure that you download a copy of the vehicle’s history report. A vehicle history report is a “vehicle overview” that outlines a variety of important information. 

For instance, a used vehicle history report will indicate whether a specific car has been involved in any automotive accidents or collisions. Having access to this information is invaluable, as it helps you make an educated decision while buying a used car.

There are several helpful websites that allow you to download used vehicle history reports. 

#4 — Take a look under the used vehicle’s hood

Do you know what to check when buying a used car from a private seller in Canada? Checking the components under the hood should be one of your top priorities.

Taking a moment to assess the condition of the internal components gives you an idea of the car’s condition and quality.

While taking a look under the vehicle’s hood, be sure to check out the following components:

• Car battery
• Oil levels
• Brake fluid levels
• Antifreeze
• Transmission fluids
• Signs of rust and corrosion
• Signs of general wear and tear

Taking the time to look under the hood gives you a better idea as to whether you should buy the used car or shop around for a different option.

#5 — Test the headlights and taillights

Testing a used vehicle’s lights is an important part of the buying process. It’s illegal to drive with one (or more) broken headlights or taillights, so you need to make sure that all of the exterior lights are in working order.

If you unknowingly purchase a used vehicle with dead headlights or taillights and the authorities catch you driving it, you could receive a ticket and a fine.

But, if you spot the issue before committing to the sale, you can use the broken light/s as leverage while haggling with the seller.

#6 — Test drive the used vehicle

It would be remiss to make a used car buying checklist without mentioning the importance of test drives.

Test driving a used car not only gives you a chance to get a “feel” for the car; it also gives you an opportunity to take note of any issues with the interior.

Is the “check engine” light on? Are the brakes responsive? How does the car handle in comparison to other cars that you’ve driven? These are some of the important questions that you should be asking yourself while test driving a used car.

#7 — Get auto insurance quotes from an online insurance brokerage

After all is said and done, you won’t be able to drive your vehicle if you don’t have valid automobile insurance. 

If you’re looking for competitive auto insurance quotes in Canada, you should consider teaming up with an online insurance brokerage, like our team at Surex. Insurance brokerages work with a variety of insurance companies, allowing them to act as a “one-stop-shop” for insurance quotes!

Bundle multiple policies and save up to 25% with your Surex advisor

Finding the right auto insurance company doesn’t have to be difficult; all you need to do is team up with a Surex insurance advisor. Within ten short minutes, we can provide you with a wide variety of quotes.

Contact one of our advisors over the phone or online and get started today!