Buying a used vehicle can save you thousands over new, but the difference between a great deal and a costly mistake usually comes down to what you check before signing anything. Here's what actually matters.
Start with the history, not just the price
A clean-looking vehicle can still hide a rough past. Ask for a vehicle history report and pay attention to accident records, the number of previous owners, and whether it's ever been registered in a province with heavier road salt use, which accelerates rust on the frame and undercarriage.
What to check in person
- Paint and panel gaps — uneven gaps or slightly mismatched paint between panels can indicate prior collision repair
- Tire wear — uneven wear across the tread can point to alignment or suspension issues
- Under the hood — look for fresh fluid leaks, corroded battery terminals, and a belt that isn't cracked or glazed
- Interior wear versus odometer — heavily worn pedals or a sagging driver's seat on a vehicle with low reported mileage is worth asking about
Always take a proper test drive
A short drive around the block isn't enough. Get the vehicle up to highway speed if you can, brake firmly from a safe stopping distance, and listen for anything unusual, clunks over bumps, pulling under braking, or a transmission that hesitates or shifts roughly. Our test drive process is built around giving you enough time and distance to actually notice these things.
Get a pre-purchase inspection
Even a vehicle that looks and drives fine can have issues that only show up on a lift. A pre-purchase inspection at a proper service centre checks brakes, suspension components, and signs of prior frame or flood damage that aren't visible from a quick walk-around.
Don't skip the paperwork
Confirm the VIN on the vehicle matches the registration and history report exactly, and make sure there's no outstanding lien before you finalize anything.
Our approach
Every vehicle in our inventory is inspected and detailed before it's listed, and we're happy to walk you through its history and condition in person, not just hand you the keys for a quick look around the lot.
