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Buying a Car Checklist

A car-buying checklist covering research, financing, shopping, inspection, negotiation and the final paperwork.

What this tool does

A car-buying checklist covering research, financing, shopping, inspection, negotiation and the final paperwork.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 6 groups and 19 items.

  • Research (4 items): Determine your budget; Compare models; Read reviews; Check insurance costs
  • Financing (3 items): Check your credit score; Get pre-approved for a loan; Compare interest rates
  • Shopping (2 items): Test drive vehicles; Check the vehicle history report
  • Inspection (4 items): Check the exterior for damage; Check the interior condition; Test all features; Have a mechanic inspect it (if used)
  • Negotiation (2 items): Research a fair price; Get multiple quotes
  • Purchase (4 items): Review all paperwork; Register the vehicle; Get insurance; Transfer the title

Tip: Work through the stages in order and tick each step as you finish it. Ticks are saved on this device.

Limitations

  • This is a general list. It does not give financial or legal advice, and it does not know your local rules for registration, insurance or title transfer. The order of the purchase steps differs by place, so check whether you need insurance before you can register or drive the car.
  • Some steps, such as the mechanic inspection, apply only to used vehicles.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.

FAQs

Q: Does the list change for loans, leases or cash?
A: No. It starts as one list and does not ask how you plan to pay. Skip or remove the financing items if you are paying cash.
Q: Does it help me with a trade-in?
A: No. A trade-in is not on the list, so add that research yourself if you have a vehicle to trade.
Q: Does it tell me what a fair price or budget is?
A: No. It reminds you to research both but gives no figures. Look up current prices for the car you want.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes. Ticks are saved in your browser on this device, so they are still there when you come back. They are not sent anywhere and do not follow you to another device or browser.

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