Buying a used car can feel like a gamble, especially when you’re not sure what to look for. Dealerships are not always upfront, and the wrong move could cost you thousands. This checklist breaks down what to do and what to avoid so you can make a smart decision before you sign anything.
Before you visit the dealership
The choices you make before you step onto the lot can shape how the rest of your car-buying process plays out. This is the part where you start building leverage — by walking in prepared, not pressured.
- Research the car model: Look into long-term reliability, common issues and repair costs so you know what to expect down the road.
- Check the dealer’s reputation: Scan reviews and verify their complaint history with the Better Business Bureau.
The more groundwork you do here, the easier it becomes to recognize red flags later.
While you’re at the dealership
This is when the pressure kicks in: you’re test-driving, asking questions and trying to make sense of fast-moving conversations — but know that taking your time now can protect you from buying into something you’ll regret later.
- Review the Buyers Guide sticker: This tells you whether the car comes “as is” or with a warranty and outlines who is responsible for repairs.
- Get everything in writing: Don’t rely on verbal promises; if it’s not on paper, it will be more difficult to enforce.
- Inspect the car or bring your own mechanic: Even certified vehicles can have problems, and surface polish doesn’t reveal what’s under the hood.
- Don’t sign anything you haven’t read: If something does not make sense, ask. Rushed contracts benefit the seller, not you.
Once you’ve asked the right questions and reviewed everything carefully, the next step is making sure the paperwork matches what you have been told.
Before you finalize the sale
You are close to the finish line, but this is where hidden costs and documentation issues tend to surface. A little extra attention here can prevent legal headaches later.
- Run a vehicle history report: Use a trusted source to check for major accidents, title issues or odometer rollbacks.
- Review all fees and add-ons: Push back on extras you didn’t ask for, like protection packages or hidden dealer fees.
- Make sure the title and paperwork are in order: Confirm that all required disclosures are provided and that the vehicle’s paperwork checks out under Connecticut rules.
If anything feels off, that is your sign to pause, not to push through.
After the purchase
Even after you’ve driven off the lot, your work is not done. Keeping good records and staying alert can help you respond quickly if something goes wrong.
- Keep every document: Save the bill of sale, warranty info, inspection notes and all communication with the dealer.
- Act fast if problems come up: The sooner you raise issues in writing, the more options you’ll have for resolving them.
- Keep a record of problems: If issues arise, make a contemporaneous written record of the date, mileage, discussions with the dealer, and repairs performed.
Good documentation can make all the difference if you ever need to hold the dealer accountable.
What comes next
If you are still shopping, this checklist helps you avoid the biggest traps – but if you have already signed and something doesn’t sit right, it’s okay to ask questions. Help is out there — someone with experience in these cases can guide you through what to do next.