First car · Part 3 of 4
Check the used-car deal before signing
What should you check before you sign?
Get the out-the-door quote in writing
Get an itemized out-the-door price before visiting. It should show the car price, tax, required fees, and optional add-ons. Compare its total with the items you expected.
Check a written quote
$14,000.00 advertised + $980.00 tax + $420.00 required fees
$15,400.00 expected total
$15,850.00 written quote · $450.00 more to explain
Ask the dealer to itemize the difference. It may include fees or optional add-ons; compare the final contract with the written quote.
Check the car itself
Read the Buyers Guide for warranty terms, check recalls and vehicle history, and get an independent mechanic’s inspection. A history report does not replace the inspection.
Use any written repair estimate to negotiate or walk away. Get promises to fix problems in writing.
Read the final paperwork
Match the contract to the quote and loan offer: VIN, price, APR, term, payment, add-ons, and total of payments. Remove optional products you do not want.
If you own a car now, compare its trade-in offer with what you could net from a private sale.